University of Washington-Seattle Campus Reviews

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Madeline from Seattle, WA

07/11/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

79 out of 82 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who don't mind lots of rain and lots of (smart) people will love the University of Washington!

Tips for prospective students

Becoming involved in the multitudes of extracurricular activities offered is the single most important thing you can do as a student at the University of Washington. This is a very, very large school and it's important to find a smaller group to call home.

Bang for the buck

Freshman don't usually get much (if anything) in the way of scholarships. If you're set on the University of Washington, look for outside scholarships to cover your first year or two, and remember that once you've declared a major, departmental scholarships will start coming your way.

Am enjoying being here

So many fun things to do on and off campus! Downtown Seattle is a short bus ride away.

Am learning a lot

If you can get past the large number of students in your lower-level classes, learning will not be a problem. Professors, TAs and study centers are generally very kind and willing to help you out. If you seek help, you will get it.

Laura from Seattle, WA

01/29/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

63 out of 66 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The University of Washington is great for students with independent personalities, and for those, with perseverance, who want to become more independent in their academic and personal lives. This school does not hand-hold you by any means. You are responsible for figuring out how to get that extra financial aid, what classes to register for, and how to manage your schedule. Granted, there are many knowledgeable outlets for help and guidance (Mary Gates Undergraduate Advising, Departmental Advisers, Husky Mentors program to name a few), but an education at this school mainly consists of you alone actively pursuing your goals. This definitely fosters good leadership skills.

Tips for prospective students

Due to economic pressures this year, the state budget for our school's funding has unfortunately dropped and many of this year's students are planning more for our financial future at this school (my primary reason for coming to Cappex). My first piece of advice would be to get as much financial aid as possible even before the school has issued aid to you. In college, you can NEVER have too much money. I did not apply for any because I thought it was one big lottery game that I was never going to win, but I have learned it never hurts to try. Secondly, be prepared to read and write like never before. Also, be prepared to actively read (underline, highlight, whatever floats your boat) and take good notes. Thirdly, the taking good notes tip also applies to lectures, which you should go to. Even if they are Pod-Casted or on the internet because chances are you will procrastinate listening to them. Figure out a note-taking structure that you can best review when it comes down to studying. Lastly, figure out your ideal study space. Ask yourself, do you need silence? Do you need lots of space? Do you need to be super comfortable? There are many libraries, buildings, grassy wet knolls, and other atmospheres to surround yourself in when you need to get down to business. Guaranteed, there will be a place for you, and it will be quite rewarding when you find it.

Bang for the buck

I am currently paying in-state tuition, averaged at $7,692 for a typical undergraduate (compared to the $24,367 for non-residents of Washington). I feel that this is an adequate price to pay for the quality of education, awesome college experience, and prestige associated with this university. The food on campus is mostly a bit overpriced. But it is the price you pay for its convenience. You can always eat off-campus. Seattle is deliciously diverse, but budgeting will become very important to you. The housing... I am slightly indifferent about because it is situational. There are three paths: off-campus (with parents, own apartment, etc.), on-campus (dorms), or Greek (fraternity or sorority). Each of these has their own set of variables that can contribute to your happiness or frustration of your living situation. I have friends in all places so if you would really like to know more, feel free to send me an e-mail. I love to procrastinate my homework: lauram13@uw.edu

Am enjoying being here

I love living in Seattle. It is a relaxed, beautiful city. There hasn't been as much rain as I expected, mostly overcast, which I do not mind (plus, if you really need the rays, you can go and sit under some UV lamps in the Hall Health center to boost your vitamin D intake and nurture a happy disposition if need be.) There are so many places and sights to experiences - there's never a dull moment here.

Am learning a lot

I have learned more at this University than any of my past educational institutions. There is so much information and knowledge condensed into each class, it's sometimes mind blowing. Every class seems interesting, so you'll never be left without options.

Alvin Russell from Puyallup, WA

08/17/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

33 out of 36 people found this review useful.
1 person found this inaccurate.
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Great for these types of students

The UW is a great place for almost anyone. There is a nice balance between strong Democrats and stout Republicans if politics is your calling. There is a trail that runs around the campus for those who enjoy a nice stroll or bike ride through the outdoors. The campus sits on the edge of Lake Union for anyone who enjoys water sports or a nice canoe ride. For those who love the city life, downtown Seattle is just ten minutes south (without traffic). The UW has great programs for whatever career you pursue; engineering, medicine, arts, business; the list goes on and on. Just make sure you have a reliable raincoat!

Tips for prospective students

For those of you hoping to get accepted to the University of Washington, the main piece of advice I can give is be well-rounded. From my experiences, I believe that the UW is looking for people who excel in a variety of things. Some of these may include, but are not limited to, academics, athletics, arts, extracurriculars, and community service/volunteer work. Try to be involved in any and all of these and whatever else you can get your hands on. Along with these activities, it is well advised to keep your GPA to above a 3.0; if you're above a 3.5 you're in good shape. For transfer students, I think the main thing they want to see is improvement in your GPA and a commitment to the program and/or career you wish to pursue.

Bang for the buck

The UW has many perks to attending its school. There are many programs aimed to help you succeed throughout college as well as in pursuing your careers. Qualified counselors and tutors are ready to help you every step of the way. The UW also offers a program called the Husky Promise in which low to middle-income families can qualify for a full four-year tuition paid grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid. There are hundreds of other scholarships that the UW is willing to give as well. Be wary though; with the current economic situation, some academic programs may be shutting down.

Am enjoying being here

There are many reasons why the UW is a quality university to attend. Not only is the campus beautiful; with the picturesque view of Mt. Rainier over the towering Drumheller fountain, the intricate architecture of the Suzallo Library, and the alluring nature of the cherry blossoms during spring; the UW has a vast amount of student organizations and associations that can match any and all personalities. There are also many fraternities and sororities that would be happy to take you into their family if that tickles your fancy. Above all, there is a diverse student body who are very accepting and welcoming to everyone. Overall, the University of Washington is a great school to attend.

Am learning a lot

The quality of teaching here, as of anywhere, truly depends on your professors/teaching assistants. I believe that I have experience both sides of this spectrum. If you are fortunate enough to get a quality professor it is much easier to grasp the ideas that are being presented. Not only that, quality professors actually want their students to succeed so they open up extra office hours for your convenience to stop by for extra help or other questions. On the other hand, if you happen upon a professor who is sub-par, you may need to tack on some extra study hours or look for help from your friends, academic counselors or tutors. Overall, the amount that I am learning is aplenty, but ultimately the amount you want to learn is up to you and how much time you are willing to put in expanding your knowledge.

Jessica from Seattle, WA

07/26/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

21 out of 24 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

City slickers, those who like large colleges, those who want to major in the sciences, anyone who LOVES ethnic food, people who love soccer and want to attend college in the city with the best MLS soccer team in the US

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to lose weight when you start school: you walk a LOT on campus. UW's Seattle campus is also on a hill, so you go downhill to get anywhere and have to work to get back. Also prepare for rain, and don't take the higher food plans from the college. Buy your food from the local grocery stores or restaurants, which are fairly inexpensive.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is going up this fall of 2009, and up again in 2010. Times are tight, so there's a definite sense that the increase in tuition coupled with the decrease in professors is a bit of a jip for the students.

Am enjoying being here

The Ave is fun and has quite the selection of 'ethnic food', you can go almost anywhere in Seattle by bus, and the people are nice.

Am learning a lot

Paying attention in class is very important - I notice a lot of students get away with surfing Facebook or MSN in class because undergrad classes are so large. If you take notes and use the wealth of knowledge that your TA's have, you'll do well.

Janella from Everett, WA

01/16/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

17 out of 18 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

People who... - like the urban (or even suburban) feel. Seattle is like my small scale NYC. But there are neighborhoods surrounding campus, so you're not smack dab in the middle of bustling streets. - don't mind getting wet every once in a while. - appreciates a bit of gothic architecture. - love to learn and likes a challenge - are social or who want to be more social - to wear purple... you're gonna love it here!

Tips for prospective students

You're going into college. YOU are responsible for making it the best years of your life. Everything is here, just ask for it. I know it's a given, but honestly, to succeed in your classes you just simply have to do your work. I've changed my attitude to simply Just do it. It's hard sometimes (and sometimes I fall short), but doing SOMETHING is better than nothing. Often times, late work is not accepted or else you really get a low grade. Just do it. Don't just skip class because you don't want to go. If you're really tired, just sit in the back of class and TRY to stay awake. Believe me, I KNOW it's hard. Figure out a schedule that works for you. Manage time for studying, eating, sleeping, relaxing, and having fun. Umbrella. Need I say more? And something I struggled with was figuring out the systems of the school. Signing up for a FIG entering the UW was probably the best decision I've ever made. I can go on and on about how it helped me transition into college (easy making friends, help on common classes and interests, insight into what the college offers, clubs, studying abroad, etc.) Read the back section of the planner they give you. I made some mistakes and missed opportunities by not reading my planner. It helps so much. Just read it and it'll make your life a lot easier. Research classes (find the rating of professors and classes on your school account) before registration. Don't sweat or stress. There's a lot of fun things, groups, and activities to get involved with. Keep it in your head that college is supposed to be the best years of your life. It's what you make it. Just be proactive.

Bang for the buck

Yeah, it's pretty pricey. But what I've been advised is that it doesn't matter what you're paying, it's with what you do with your time in college, no matter what college you go to. If you're on campus and you feel right, do it. You won't regret it. The UW is ranked pretty high as a college and I know that there are great people here ready to help you learn what you need and want to know.

Am enjoying being here

I love the UW. The diversity, the range of clubs, the many resources, the architecture, fun professors, the student activity, the restaurants and cafés on campus, the U-Village for nearby shopping, being just a bus ride away from downtown Seattle and many other popular locations (many buses go right through campus), the quad during spring, the history of the school, the Harry Potter reading room... the list goes on. Yes, it rains a lot... but it's always fun to be able to use rain boots or hear the rain fall on your umbrella. It doesn't rain every single day. The sunny days during school are just right; not scolding hot, maybe 55-70 degrees. Aside from weather, the UW has that scholarly feel. Even though you're having a tough time in class, you feel smart just being there, and you know that you're getting a good education.

Am learning a lot

I was afraid that I'd come to the University not knowing anything, desperately trying hard to keep up with the curriculum. It turns out that the UW isn't so scary. Yes, it is a challenge, but it's a great experience that's easily overcome with growing up and taking responsibility of your studying habits. There are so many resources here. You can pretty much get help with ANYTHING! All you have to do is ask. Something I've been told several times is that the everyone here wants you to succeed. You've got office hours to talk to your professors (asking for help or just to talk), TA's, study centers designed for specific classes and subjects, online forums for individual classes, even study buddy systems in dorms. Not only can you get help on any subject, but there's so many resources to help find yourself, what major might fit you, internships, careers you might want to consider, etc. The diversity on campus is also a great source of learning. Just making friends help you explore yourself and learn about worlds you’re not familiar with. Yeah, there can be some huge lecture classes, but you get separated into smaller classes within most classes where you can ask any questions you have. So it's almost like watching a video in a movie theatre and then being able to talk about it in a class of 20-30 people. College is about learning as much as you can about yourself and the world in which you want to live in (let it be science, technology, art, history, etc). The University of Washington helps you do all of that. You just have to ask.

Eric from Seattle, WA

Students who love big cities, meeting new people every day, pursuing something in the sciences or business.

Tips for prospective students

Walking in with tons of college credits help. Be prepared to meet new people everywhere!

Bang for the buck

In state - it's definitely worth it. Out of state - fairly expensive, considering quality of education at a large public school versus that of similar, smaller private universities.

Am enjoying being here

UW is amazing! It has a nice college feel in the middle of a big city, so it's a nice mix of both. There's so many people and organizations that it's hard to not meet someone who shares similar interests. The only downside is the constant rain and bitter cold winters...

Am learning a lot

Education here is a priority for many students and professors, not to mention UW is the largest research institution in the U.S. If you want research, you can find it - provided you talk with the right people. UW has strong engineering and health sciences, and whoever is pursuing engineering/medicine at the UW won't be let down, at least beyond the introductory classes.

Ronald from Honolulu, HI

04/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

12 out of 13 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Keep in mind that the UW is a public campus, which means that although non-students cannot enter the buildings, they can still loiter around campus. This makes going out alone at night particularly dangerous.

Greek Life

There are many fraternities and sororities that exist at the UW. Each has its own goals and requirements. The stereotypical frat boy that does poorly in school may not be seen because there are minimum GPA requirements to join certain fraternities or sororities. Nevertheless, Greek Life at the UW allows students with common interests to develop relationships and have fun.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs that satisfy the needs of just about any student interested in any trend - Zombies vs Humans, Vampire Cosplay, Anime, and more. There are also large events for ethnic cultures, such as the Hawaiian Luau (a traditional Hawaiian celebration) that is held every year at the UW.

Great for these types of students

All students who wish to have fun, but also academically challenge themselves.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year, the UW kicks off the year by celebrating Dawg Dayz. This event is held for students who want to end their summer break by going to an enormous party for the sole purpose of having fun before school starts. On campus, The Quad is known for its famous cherry blossom trees that bloom during the spring, attracting hundreds of tourists.

Bang for the buck

As an out of state student, the University of Washington provides me with the education I need for a price that is worth it. There are also opportunities that students can use to save large amounts of money on purchasing anything, from food to clothes.

What to do for fun

The UW dorms provide students with access to many activities like ping pong, billiards, and video games in recreational areas. The gym, known as the IMA, is open to all students throughout the week. Especially when spring approaches, the UW campus is filled with beautiful greenery and flowers, so hanging out with friends on campus is an alternative to going to the mall.

Food and Dining

The cafeterias in the school focus on providing students with a large array of different foods to prevent students from growing tired of eating in school. However, eating in the cafeteria all of the time may cause students to seek changes in their eating environment. The UW is similar to a small city, so there are many other restaurants that sell cuisines from a cornucopia of cultures.

Dorm Life

Like anywhere else, dorm life can be good or bad because it depends mainly on the people around you. At the UW, there is a large amount of diversity among the students, so there are many opportunities to meet people of different backgrounds and make friends.

Academic Rigor

I come from Hawaii, and we are used to having our 4.0 range from ninety percent and above. Normally, getting straight A's in Hawaii is fairly simple. However, the UW counts every last percentage towards your GPA, with 95% being the lowest for a 4.0.

Tips for prospective students

1) Never believe that high school is the same as college because immaturity may lead to regrettable mistakes. 2) Try hard, but don't try too hard. The key to making sure excessive effort isn't necessary is to stay on top of all assignments so that there isn't an ample amount of cramming. 3) They say that college may be too different from high school. Take this with a grain of salt because people adapt and grow into their environment differently. So don't let the horror stories and intimidation scare you.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a challenging school that blossoms independence and creativity. The majority of all faculty members are enthusiastic about the subject they teach, and are willing to assist all students. This school provides excellent opportunities for students who want to grow, not only academically, but socially as well.

Caitlin from Cincinnati, OH

Anyone can find their niche here. With 40,000 undergraduate students, it would be hard not to!

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid of how big the campus is! There are so many ways to get involved and meet people. The Honors program is one of those ways--it makes the campus a whole lot smaller. You attend Honors classes with most of the same people and can even live with them. It's a great opportunity that definitely should be considered.

Bang for the buck

UW statistically is one of the best values for an education. It's one of the top research institutions in America, it offers unrivaled study abroad opportunities, and has a world-class faculty. All that for less than $8,000 a year in tuition!

Am enjoying being here

Seattle is beautiful! Even though it sometimes (okay, more than sometimes) rains, the city is still gorgeous. On nice days (yes, we have those too!) you can see Mt. Rainier, the Cascades, and the Olympic Mountains. Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Puget Sound are all very accessible as well. There are tons of buses that run all over the city, so getting around is no problem at all. There's definitely always something to do!

Am learning a lot

I am only a part-time student right now (I'm trying to establish residency) but I can tell that I have still grown a lot academically by taking just one class, my Honors class. The discussions that we engage in are so thought-provoking; I always leave class with my mind going 100 miles an hour! There are also so many opportunities to learn outside the classroom, such as student organizations or guest lecturers.

Shelby from Everett, WA

01/19/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

11 out of 13 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who love culture (you'll see once you get here). Students who love music (awesome records stores all over the place, awesome rock scene, awesome hip hop scene). Students who love coffee (not Starbucks. Victrola. Fuel. University Zoka, this place is awesome for studying). Students who love reading (Elliott Bay Book Store, the Seattle Public Library). Students who love people ('cause there are quite a few). Students who love learning.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the school. Learn about the UW's offered majors and minors. My friend is studying medicine and UW doesn't have pre-med, so she's majoring in Art and still taking pre-med classes. You don't have to know exactly what you want to do, but try to figure out a few areas you're interested in and ask a UW advisor about classes offered that relate. Also: learn to love Pho, boba, and music and coffee snobs. Oh! and it's NOT Pike's Place Market. It's Pike Place Market. It's not a market that belongs to some dude called Pike. Oh! Oh! :) There's more to Seattle than the UW campus, which is of course wonderful and busy, but there's more. There's also more to Seattle than the Space Needle (which is not the tallest thing in Seattle) and Pike Place. Before the first quarter of your first year, grab your roommate or best friend and bus around. Go to Georgetown and get a slice of Stellar Pizza. Go to the Seattle Art Museum the first Thursday of the month for free admission. Wander through the very large Goodwill on Rainier for cool junk and then get some dim sum. Chances are, you're still a teen. If you are, register for Teen Tix. You'll get way cheaper tickets to things from movies to ballet to museums to plays. I saw a Seattle Rep production for $10 when all the old people had to see it for more than $40.

Bang for the buck

UW offers so many loans and scholarships, that even if you're coming from out of state, tuition is totally doable. And if you need some help finding scholarships and other kinds of tuition/housing financing, drop by Schmitz or Mary Gates Hall room 120 where you can find people who are paid you help you out and are happy to do it.

Am enjoying being here

Totally. The campus is BEAUTIFUL. I've visited several campuses before accepting the UW's offer of enrollment, and none of them compared to the UW's campus. The quad erupts in fluffy pink cherry blossoms in the Spring, which makes studying a little easier as I can plop down beneath a gnarled cherry tree instead of staying inside. The grass is always green. In the Autumn, the sky is so blue, it's almost ridiculous. The campus is also big enough that I can wander around if I have an hour to spare and find something I've never seen before, but small enough that it only takes ten minutes to walk from one end of it to the other. It was a little scary at first coming to such a large school (27,000 undergrads, I think), but it's really accessible. Tutoring sessions are advertised all over the place, the class sizes range from 700 to 15 students (it's really easy to take nap in the biggest lecture room in Kane Hall and it's really easy to pick a spot up front and stay awake). The school's big, but with a little effort, your community can be as small or large as you wish.

Am learning a lot

I took a drama class because I needed a VLPA and I thought it would be a breeze. It wasn't exactly as easy as I predicted: I performed monologues and scenes in front of my quiz section as well as in front of my lecture. It was nerve-wracking; I was tense before class; I ended up loving the class. It let me focus energy on something other than a paper or an in-class exam and then release it in a controlled whoosh in front of people who were just as nervous and busy as I was. Not only did I have a blast being challenged in an area outside of my once puny comfort zone, but now I can give presentations about early childhood education as well as talk openly with professors in conferences no sweat. Well, let's be honest, there was a little sweat, but much less than before. So, yes, I am learning a lot in class, but the University of Washington offers much more outside of class. I came from a smallish town in Washington and had only been to Seattle a few times before I started school at the UW, so when I did start school, the UW forced me to take the bus (something which was both daunting and extremely foreign to me). Now I am not so scared to try to take the subway in NYC.

Tanya from Seattle, WA

07/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 10 people found this review useful.
1 person found this inaccurate.
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Great for these types of students

The University of Washington is a place for students who know how to adapt quickly and can learn on their own without much guidance. There is a lot of information and help provided, but one has to take initiative in order to be able to find it. My biggest hurdle coming to UW was the grading system and learning process, so I feel like you will be able to do fine if you have a lot of self-motivation and focus. If you also have an eagerness to learn, drive for success, and willingness to explore... you will fit right in.

Tips for prospective students

BIGGEST TIP: Get involved! The UW has over 40,000 undergraduate students - you will get lost in the sea of people. With over 600 registered student organizations (RSOs), you will be able to find a group of people that want to work towards a common goal you may have. Just search RSO at the washington.edu website and there will be a goldmine of information. Tip #2: Explore! You must see - the Quad in the Springtime, the Harry Potter reading room in Suzzallo, Drumheller, the Greek Amphitheater, Gasworks, Greenlake, Farmer's Market on 50th and the Ave on Saturdays, ETC. There is SO much to do! Tip #3: It's going to be hard, but find a balance. You only get 4 years (maybe 5). Sure, you only get to go to college once and have all the fun you want, but this is also your last chance to be a student (unless you're considering graduate school). Go to class, manage your time well, and you should be fine. You are first and foremost a student so don't take that lightly!

Bang for the buck

I personally am an out-of-state student, so I pay around $35,000 per year just on tuition alone. However, I believe that this money is an investment because I'm paying for more than just my education. The University itself offers a lot of programs to students. The libraries are fully staffed with thousands of computers to access, there are skilled advisers in each department to help make academic decisions, there are multiple writing centers and after-school programs (i.e. CLUE) if you need additional help with classes, and office hours from all professors and T.A.'s. Furthermore, there are over 600 registered student organizations to join, so if you look, you will find a group to belong to. Although I endlessly stress about how much debt I'll be in after I graduate, I know the relationships I have established and the growth I have made are worth more than any dollar amount I would have to pay. Coming to the UW is definitely the best decision I have made thus far in my life.

Am enjoying being here

Regardless of the very narrow-minded grading system, the University of Washington has so much to offer. The campus alone has so many hidden gems to visit, the people are nice and friendly, mostly everyone is environmentally conscious, and my favorite part is that there is a perfect mixture between city and nature. I personally am from Las Vegas, so to be surrounded by green and blue all the time is a nice getaway. There are occasional street fairs and festivals in nearby cities going on, downtown Seattle stretches over so many blocks, and there are so many great camping locations. I never get bored here. Even if it is raining, there is more reason to visit a coffee shop to just get a warm drink!

Am learning a lot

The UW runs on a very competitive grading scale. Most classes are curved, which means that you are competing against all the people in your class. Regardless if you get an 80% on all your exams (which is somewhere around a 3.3 - 3.5), if everyone else gets the same grade as you, then you will get between a 2.7 - 3.0 for your class, depending on the department. Furthermore, since UW has become increasingly competitive, it is difficult to apply to the major that you want. Most majors require a minimum of a 2.5, but the competitive GPA to actually be accepted ranges from a 3.2 for Psychology, a 3.6 for the Foster School of Business, and a 4.0 for the CSE department. You have to be increasingly smart or do really well reading from textbooks in order to be a shoe-in. Otherwise, invest heavily in Ratemyprofessors.com in order to find the really good professors (honestly, a bad professor can ruin a course for you. Even though we are paying $$ to be here, there are some bad teachers). Overall, you will most likely get a decent professor that is passionate in teaching the material and will have interesting lectures, but because of the competitive structure, most professors shape their course around the GPA standard and will usually base your grade on one paper and two exams. Even if you are smart or did really well in high school, you have to be good at testing in order to do well. Just be ready to adjust to the grading curves.

Natalie from Liberty Lake, WA

12/26/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 8 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who have a passion for learning, are not afraid of big cities, are comfortable in large lecture halls and who work hard will fit in well at the UW. Students who have a deep passion for WSU or like to wear crimson and gray constantly may not fit in so well.

Tips for prospective students

1. Sleep and exercise are important. 2.Doing the reading/homework will help your overall learning if not grade. 3. Look on RateMyProfessor.com before taking a class and if you don't enjoy it, drop it because there are many other classes for the same credit. 4. Don't forget to make time for fun and food! 5. Get involved outside of school work. 6. Create a budget for extra spending and stick to it. 7. Use advisers and older students for advice on classes and life in college. 8. Assume you know nothing, and keep your mind open. 9. Grades are very important, but they aren't the final say in success. 10. MOST IMPORTANTLY- do not wear flip flops when it rains. . . it is slippery.

Bang for the buck

Absolutely every college seems to be overpriced when you have to pay tuition or housing, the University of Washington is no exception. The education that you will receive is a very good one and as far as the state of Washington, I believe that the UW is the most prestigious public school. Job interviews and opportunities are constant for the juniors and seniors at the UW. However the cost is no small sum and the University itself only gives out need based scholarships, so keep that in mind when applying and accepting.

Am enjoying being here

The weather which is constantly rainy does take a toll on your mood, dragging it slowly in the downward direction. However, choosing a college solely on the climate may not be in your best interest. The FIG program which is designed to make the college feel smaller for incoming freshman is a good idea to consider because close friends do make the difference between enjoyment and misery in a foreign area. The best way to enjoy yourself is to get involved in programs outside of school work because it helps to ease the stress and demand of a difficult college course load. Some great programs are intramural sports, playing or watching, Model UN, Vampire Club, video game clubs, or foreign language clubs.

Am learning a lot

In college anywhere there is an infinite amount of information to learn. The important thing to remember is that not all learning is done in the classroom. I have read my books and written my papers, taken my finals and learned everything from the history of Algeria to how to pronounce squirrel in French. But the University of Washington has more to teach than simply what the course description covers. One can learn how to get long with people from different places and backgrounds, how to deal with people or professors that one doesn't get along with, or simply how to live on your own. The sink or swim approach of many places does apply to UW, but swimming is easy here as long as you do the class requirements and keep an open mind about things you experience or people you meet.

Audrey from Seattle, WA

Those active in extracurricular activities, willing to take initiative to succeed, determined to do well in their field of study, and wanting to enjoy their college years!

Tips for prospective students

As others have already mentioned, come in with some credits. Not only will you have some of your credits covered, you'll also be able to register for classes earlier than your peers (and registration day can be quite stressful for freshman). Also, if possible try to live on campus your first year. Whether that's in the dorms or through Greek life, you'll make a lot of connections just by interacting and living with so many people.

Bang for the buck

As an out-of-state student, the cost to attend the University of Washington is quite high (about 7 times more than in-state tuition at my local university would be), but for the most part I feel that it's worth it. Here's why I chose the UW: 1) it offers a tremendous amount of research opportunities (as UW is one of the top research institutes in the country), 2) the faculty are experts in their fields of study, and 3) the difficult, yet substantial curriculum I knew I would learn from. It's definitely been worth it so far.

Am enjoying being here

I love Seattle. I've lived my entire life in a place where the sun never stops shining, and the rain only comes in a few passing showers. Yet, I had little to no trouble adjusting to the cold, rainy winters that comes with living in Seattle because the weather comes as a gradual change. Additionally, the bus system is incredible (downtown=15 min. ride, nearest mall=10 min. ride, Greenlake=20 min. ride) if you feel like you need to get away, but there's so many clubs and activities on-campus that there's really no reason to leave.

Am learning a lot

Despite the difficult curriculum of most introductory courses (Ex. CHEM 142), most TA's and a select few professors are willing to help you succeed as long as you seek them out. I found that I learned the most and performed the best in classes where I asked professors to help me understand material I wasn't comprehending. That being said, not all professors are as kind or helpful as others, so I usually use ratemyprofessors.com to get a student opinion before choosing a class with a specific professor.

Heather from Jamestown, RI

09/13/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

My tip to future students is to make sure that you study and stay focused. I can speak from experience. My mind has wandered more than once and grades have started to slip. It takes work to do well, but it is more than worth it when you have such amazing professors and TAs that are more than willing to help you succeed.

Bang for the buck

The University of Washington is definitely a school with high tuition and costs, but you can be sure that you will get the best education possible. The staff and students at the University of Washington are all kind and very helpful when in need of it. I would recommend this college to anybody that is willing to work hard and have fun.

Am enjoying being here

The University of Washington - Seattle campus is extremely beautiful. That is one of the things that I enjoy most about being here. Everything is also very close and very easy to travel from place to place. There are plenty of stores, restaurants, and things to do with a minimum of a 2 minute walk, to a maximum of a half hour bus ride. The classes are also enjoyable. No matter how much I may have not enjoyed a class, I always learn SOMETHING and have fun when I do.

Am learning a lot

The University of Washington is a great place for higher learning. Every class challenges your brain to some extent or another. Even the classes that are considered easy have a great deal of studying and stretch your mind so that you learn as much as possible. I greatly enjoy it.

Jordan from Camas, WA

10/12/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

-Those who want to live in/close to the city -Those who want a big school -Those who are willing to be proactive in classes and talk to the professor, go to office hours, etc. (especially in big lecture classes!) -Those who love big sporting events (Division I athletics) -Those who are really looking to start fresh, make lots of new friends, etc.

Tips for prospective students

-Visit the campus more than once! I only visited once and it was when there were hardly any students on campus. If you want to really get a feel for the life on the UW campus, schedule a tour during the fall on a weekday. I know it's hard with school, but it's worth understanding the atmosphere here. Visit again if you've been accepted; to me, campus visits can make or break an impression of a school. -When you visit, don't just stay on the academic campus. Before or after your tour, walk up and down The Ave (UW speak for University Way) and go into the shops, restaurants, and cafés to see how it would be living like a Dawg. -Don't be afraid to ask questions of current students. If you're not sure about something, the best people to ask are people who would know and who have experienced the UW.

Bang for the buck

People might say that the UW, because it is a top state university, is too expensive. I say that you get what you pay for. The UW is one of the top research schools in the country and the education you get here is unlike any you'll get elsewhere. I'm not saying it's inexpensive to go here, but for the education you'll receive, the UW is well worth the money you (or your parents or scholarship, etc.) will spend. They offer many resources for financial aid, work study, and internship opportunities, so there are plenty of ways to stay on top of finances.

Am enjoying being here

The UW offers something for everyone. The first week here, we have Dawg Daze, which offers a variety of activities that are mostly free to UW students. Everything, from salsa lessons to a reduced-price Mariners game to concerts by well-known artists, can be found at Dawg Daze. The UW also has a great IMA, or Intramural Activities Center. Through the IMA, you can sign up for fitness classes, join an intramural sport, or just work out in their expansive weight rooms. We offer lots of clubs here too! I've even seen the Harry Potter Club practicing Quidditch. There is a club fair held on Red Square close to the beginning of the year so that you can get a feel for what each club is about. The people here at the UW make it so easy for you to get to meet new people and explore campus.

Am learning a lot

Although this is my first quarter the UW, I have learned so much! Currently I am taking English 111 and Sociology 110, as well as General Studies 199, which is required if you are part of a FIG. FIGs are a great way to create a smaller community, both academically and socially, within this large school. Sociology is proving to be very interesting. Right now we are learning about inequalities in education. English is also great. In my class, I am able to read for fun, which is not something I got to do in high school. Both classes have allowed me to learn lots of interesting new things, while applying many concepts that I learned in high school (even ones that I didn't think would come in handy!). My English teacher is a graduate student, which is NOT a bad thing at all, and my sociology professor is funny, smart, and interesting. I'm looking forward to enrolling in classes for winter quarter.

Lilian from Yakima, WA

12/25/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The UW-Seattle campus is located a mere 10 minutes from downtown Seattle, but it is an area all of its own. If the city life isn't what you're big in, you won't encounter it unless you want. Seattle, like any city is made up of many sub-neighborhoods, each one distinct. If you're incredibly shy, and have a hard time meeting people, to come to the University of Washington you have to get out of that mind-set quick. With thousands of people around you, it is easy to become just a number, it is up to you to make yourself stand out. The college experience is what you make of it, and if you really step out of your comfort zone, it truly is one of the best times of your life!

Tips for prospective students

The University of Washington is really aiming to diversify our student population. Don't think that the traditional GPA and academics will be enough. We have plenty of smart individuals on the campus. You need to be well-rounded get involved in a variety of things, show that you will enrich the campus with your unique attributes.

Bang for the buck

Currently there are a lot of budget cuts, which has diminished the quality of the campus-life. However, when I did live in the dormitories I wasn't a fan of the food, but my dorm size (Terry Hall) was not incredibly small or uncomfortable. It wasn't as cozy as my own home of course, but it wasn't unbearable, and I learned to love it after I added a few personal touches. As it is a public school that caters to over 40,000 students (including the gradate program) a lot of students overlook the may opportunities that are available to us as University of Washington students. These opportunities range from study abroad opportunities, scholarships, or even renting a camera. With several different libraries and many resource centers you will find whatever you need on campus, you just have to look!

Am enjoying being here

As a sophomore I have already become extremely involved within the campus community. I am a member of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority INC, a non-traditional sorority here on campus. I worked in the Educational Opportunity Program Office (EOP Office, through the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity) a great on campus resource for minority students. I am also a member of the community service based club, Unidas Seremos and am involved in the Ethnic Cultural Center's many activities. By being involved so extensively in all of these communities, it has helped me make friends from a variety of different backgrounds. This has entertained me in the classroom, as I have made many study buddies from my extra curriculars and socially, I am never without someone to hang out with on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Am learning a lot

I have taken a variety of different classes Calculus, Sociology of Sexuality, Latin & Greek, Environmental classes, International Studies classes...each one enhancing my knowledge as a whole. Every class leaves an impression on me, while not always the most enjoyable time, the quality of the classes always leaves an impression in that I feel like the money I have struggled to obtain to attend the university, is worth it in that every quarter I am satisfied with the knowledge I have developed. The great thing about attending such a large university is that every quarter you are left wishing you could enroll in more classes, there's never a lack of interesting classes to take.

Michelle from Shoreline, WA

I promise you'll have an amazing time! If you're ever down here, who knows? Maybe we'll have lunch!

Tips for prospective students

Don't stress! If you choose the University of Washington, you will not regret it! But truly, any college is the right decision, because it's the choice to further your education. Unless, of course, you choose WSU. (Just kidding!) :)

Bang for the buck

It's expensive. Maybe a little too expensive if you ask me. I actually ended up going here because it was the most cost-effective way to go. I definitely would choose this college over the others if I had the option again!

Am enjoying being here

Dorming is the best decision I could have made. The students surrounding me have become my friends, and keep me on top of assignments academically. It teaches you a lot about rooming with other people, but the environment is great to be around.

Am learning a lot

From the classes I am taking, my professors are obviously interested in the subjects they teach, and many have first-hand experience! They really do care that you are learning the material, but sometimes you need to seek their help.

Erika from WA

12/31/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The beauty of the UW is that it's great for all types of students and all types of learners, but it best fits those who are willing to seek out what they want or explore until they find it. It does no favors for those who are strolling along until graduation. While students are friends with each regardless of political leanings, it is a liberal campus as a whole, and very green. Anyone who is environmentally conscious will love the atmosphere and all the recycling. Most importantly, the UW is great for anybody that has an open mind, because the rest follows. If that sounds like you, welcome!

Tips for prospective students

The tip that leads to a wealth of other good ideas is this: push yourself to do things you never would have before. You may not like them or do them ever again, but you find a new major, find a new love interest or best friend, or discover a passion for something you never thought possible. By pushing your limits you expand yourself as a person and force yourself into uncomfortable situations. Speaking in class is uncomfortable, as job interviews or first dates, but the more you push yourself to do ordinary things, the easier the big things will become.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is increasing, and this is incredibly frustrating, which is why this section has only received four stars. On the other hand, it received four stars because the money you pay is worth the education you receive nine times out of ten. There will always be professors who you feel waste your time, but this happens at universities all over the world. The difference with the UW is that you have access to thousands of books and research opportunities, clubs and sports, even different dining options. Campus is in the middle of the city so you have things to do on free days, and you are only about three hours from a beach or mountains, depending on your preference. You don't just pay for your classes, you pay for everything around you and everything you have access to as a student.

Am enjoying being here

The 600-plus clubs at the university are usually a popular subject during the first days of class and they are worth exploring, the Salsa Club goes to real clubs to practice dancing and Humans v. Zombie tag takes over the whole campus. However, the clubs are not where you should stop, explore the IMA and the recreational sports teams or find a job on campus because everyone is in the same situation as you: midterms, finals, and other related stresses. There is never a lack of anything to do or a lack of people to do things with, but make sure to try a little bit of everything, at least at first.

Am learning a lot

When I first came here, I was surprised and ecstatic to learn that I was not alone and that the professors are passionate about the material they teach. Their passion translates into my continued interest in subjects I never imagined myself enjoying. It sounds cliché, but I really have learned something new each time I walk out of a lecture. The most important thing to remember about learning at a big school like the UW is that learning is an active, not passive, process. If you want more information than professors are giving you, you need to learn to seek it yourself.

Connor from Marysville, WA

08/01/2011

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

4 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Bang for the buck

From what I've seen, not a cent of what you pay for your education at the UW is ever wasted, but remember: you MUST be involved. To get your money's worth, you really need to attend events, such as the Dawg Daze, and find ways to use the benefits of being a UW student. You have a pass to ride any bus in Seattle for free included with your tuition; all you have to do is flash your UW ID. Use it! There are plenty of things to do in Seattle. I would know.

Will enjoy being here

I've always been a husky; I've been living in this part of Washington my whole life. But going to the football and basketball games and getting brief glimpses of the college didn't really do it justice. Still, after a campus tour and the O&A session, I know that I couldn't have chosen a better college. O&A really opens your eyes to all the stuff that goes on at the UW; the clubs, the sports events, everything. Not to mention that the sports fans are hardcore; they really do bleed purple. There are so many opportunities to get involved at the UW, so there's no excuse whatsoever to stand by idly. After what I've seen, I can't wait to attend the UW. And I haven't even been to Dawg Daze yet!

Will learn a lot

The University of Washington has produced many great assets to society, and continues to do so. It has more classes than one could possibly take in a lifetime, and according to some former attendees of the college that I know, the professors are very good at their job. I'm confident of a good education.

Robert from Seattle, WA

it's relatively safe. husky night ride will take you home at all hours of the night, which is a nice service, though i've never utilized it.

Greek Life

it's there.

Clubs and Activities

there are countless. far too many to document here.

Great for these types of students

go-getters, if you'll pardon the slang. yes, it's easy to fade into the background, but those who will benefit from uw most are then ones who are willing to cut through the masses and get to the professors.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

the libraries are ridiculously amazing. odegaard is ugly, but open 24-hrs. suzallo closes earlier, but looks like a harry potter scene inside and out. allen is loaded with amazing resources.

Bang for the buck

if you're in-state, it's an incredible value. out-of-staters get shafted, but it's easier to get in as a result (sssh, don't tell anyone i said that).

What to do for fun

there's tons. you're in the middle of seattle, so there's no excuse to be bored. go downtown, or to any of seattle's awesome neighborhoods.

Food and Dining

not bad, not amazing. four stars because the surrounding area is full of fantastic options. ugly mug cafe is where you want to be (you're welcome for that recommendation).

Dorm Life

it's cool, if you like living in dorms. you need to make that call on your own. i enjoyed it for a year, and then i got out. it's a good way to make friends, but i'm not big on communal showers and bathrooms, or drunk people wandering the walls and shouting in the middle of the night.

Academic Rigor

it's all up to you. you can coast and do fine, or you can do what i'm doing, which is taking graduate seminars as a sophomore. again, the opportunities are all there. if it's not challenging enough for you, tell the professor. he/she will give you more work.

Tips for prospective students

good grades, good sat scores, good essays. that's how i got in. it's not an especially difficult place to get in, but they can be tightfisted with financial aid.

In three sentences

it's a big and beautiful school. the opportunities are boundless, you just have to reach out and grab them. believe it or not, in most departments you'll find the professors have time to talk to you on a regular basis - take advantage.

Morgan from Orting, WA

09/06/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

There are so many RSOs (basically clubs) on campus that you can join, including Tengo Club, Marching Band, Halo Club, Humans vs. Zombies and many many more. There is something for you out there! If you like sports, our top tier Pac 12 teams will keep you entertain from Fall through Spring!

Food and Dining

The food here is what you would find in your cafeteria for likes of quality, but that's not too bad if you're not one to cook for yourself. There are a few markets on campus that accept you Husky Dining Account, which can be convenient if you want to stock up your mini fridge. UW Seattle Campus is NOTORIOUS for the amount of coffee stands in buildings. So wake up with some Starbucks on your Dining Account, and get to class wired and ready to go!

Dorm Life

There are new and old dorm buildings. If you want something excessively nice, feel free to choose the new ones. However dorm life is a bit pricey. Living in the older dorms is cheaper and has more history, but the choice is yours. Be sure to bond with your roommate! The community that you have handed to you in a dorm is unlike an apartment or most any other situation that you will have. There are many activities for floors or entire dorm halls. Get involved and have fun! Usually it involves food, movies, crafts, and more.

Academic Rigor

The University of Washington is very prestigious, and they choose the smartest- and most well-rounded- people that they can find. Academics are hard and there is a need to focus. Be sure to get to know your classmates and have accountability partners for studying or motivating you to go to class. Otherwise, if you work hard, you'll seek reward.

Tips for prospective students

Application tips: Be sure to list as many of the extra curricular activities that you are involved in, because the UW is looking for so much more than test scores and GPA. The essays are what make or break you so be sure to have as many people as possible review them before submitting. Campus is relatively large, so be sure to pack your walking shoes! The weather from mid-Fall Quarter until Spring is a constant cloudy and damp, so you can embrace your inner Seattleite by wearing layers of flannel and scarves galore! There are so many libraries and study spots on campus, so be sure to explore and find a place that suits you and your learning needs.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a large community nestled in the midst of the Pacific Northwest's Emerald City: Seattle. The campus is a little escape from the buzz of the city, yet bustles with activity of students and faculty. On a good day, you can catch sight of Mount Rainier behind Drumheller fountain on Rainier Plaza; a sight worth seeing.

Taylor from Seattle, WA

10/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

Apply early! The waiting list for this school is often very long, so an early application WITH a well thought-out personal statement is highly recommended. Also, the UW is an amazing freshman-year school because you are given such a wide variety of options that deciding on a major becomes easy.

Bang for the buck

As to be expected with any college education, money is always an issue. However, the UW has been rated in the Top 10 Bang for the Buck schools in the nation, and has even been commonly referred to as a Public Ivy League institution. For the money spent, the students earn a lot back in education quality, experience and recognition.

Am enjoying being here

First off: The campus is AMAZING. You will be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful learning environment anywhere in Washington state, if not the entire west coast. The residence halls are very reasonable in quality, and the food options are highly extensive and delicious. There are also several opportunities for activities such as regular movie nights, student organizations, and the IMA (Inter-mural Activities Center).

Am learning a lot

Thus far, I have learned quite a bit even after being here for two quarters. The instructors are quality and really seem to demonstrate expertise. However, i would strongly suggest researching the programs/classes closely and ask around for reviews on professors from friends, faculty and review sites. The teaching styles vary significantly, and knowing the teaching styles can make or break a class.

Celia from Seattle, WA

12/29/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

UW is great for students who are independent, laid-back, and assertive. As one of 40,000 students, you have to be able to take care of yourself and pursue the things that you want. It also helps to be able to go with the flow, because the school can't completely satisfy all 40,000 students all of the time.

Tips for prospective students

Although some entry-level classes are in huge lecture halls, even freshman can get into small classes with less than 30 students. I recommend signing up for a Freshman Interest Group (FIG) during your first quarter. A FIG is a cluster of classes that you take with the same small group of people. I signed up for a psychology and English FIG. I had a 25-person English class, and after English we would all walk together to our large Psychology 101 lecture.

Bang for the buck

UW is much more affordable than many other public and private colleges, but it is still expensive. I was offered a generous amount of financial aid for this year, but I know that doesn't happen to everyone. All incoming students should fill out the FAFSA and apply for financial aid. It's relatively easy and definitely worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is so beautiful and everything you need is only blocks away. I'm never bored and there are thousands of new people to meet. I live in one of the all-freshmen dorms, and everyone is always looking to make new friends, which is great. It's harder to meet people who are in the Greek system, because they live all the way across campus. However, it can be done -- it just takes more effort.

Am learning a lot

The general education requirements at UW are fairly flexible, so students can satisfy most of those requirements by taking classes that truly interest them. This quarter, I took Psychology 101 and loved it. We had to do 30 to 60 pages of reading per week, but I didn't mind because I was so interested in the topic. It's easy to learn when you're interested in the class.

Matthew from Bothell, WA

Students who love nice architecture, beautiful scenery, and just a good group of people.

Tips for prospective students

UW is big! make sure you know your classes on the first day. Walking around can take long time. It's almost like a mini city of its own!

Bang for the buck

Tuition is slowly rising, and it has risen ever since i was a freshman here at UW. When my brother attended the UW, he only paid 2,000 dollars a quarter. I am now paying up to 3,000 dollars and that was only 4 years ago. Is this really a bang for the buck? I would like to say yes but the rising tuition every year is beginning to be a bit ridiculous. The UW is definitely a prestigious school, and is very hard to get in. Applying for a job with a degree at UW will definitely look better than another regular University. UW is one of the best medical schools in the nation, and their business school is approaching top 10 for public schools. The facilities are all top notch, with new buildings being constructed. The IMA is also a very nice gym for students to attend, which is included into the tuition

Am enjoying being here

I love UW. One word that described UW would simply be, beautiful. Much of the UW architecture is based off of the Gothic era, making some of the building appear as if you were walking around Hogwarts wizardy school in harry potter. A good example of this would be UW's famous Suzallo library. Inside of this library, it literally looks as if you're walking through an old cathedral. it really is something.

Am learning a lot

One problem that many students have with the University of Washington is that class rooms have far too many students. Some of the introductory classes can range up to 100 students or more. From personal experience, with a class room that size the professor will have no idea who you are, or will they ever unless you sit in the very front row every single day, as well as raising your hand constantly. Other than that, you can fall asleep, you can skip, and there will never be any real penalties for the most part. This makes class discussion and learning a little bit harder because if you're confused, you often don't get your question answered because of the size of the class. This changes however as you finish taking all the basic courses and approach your high level courses. Right now, my classes are around 30-40 students, which isn't really bad a tall.

Nicholas from Olympia, WA

03/24/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The University of Washington is great for any type of student planing to study anything. The University of Washington offers many different undergraduate programs. Our undergraduate programs rank high compared to other public universities in the country. Our graduate programs also rank high including our business school, med school, and law school. We also have many clubs and activities offered. Because of this, UW is great for any student.

Tips for prospective students

In high school focus on getting a high gpa preferably a 3.7 or higher. Also participate in extra curricular activities and get high sat or act test scores. Take challenging classes too. If you high school offers ap or ib classes take as many as you can because colleges like to see that applicants are challenging themselves and they do look at the classes you take in high school.

Bang for the buck

As far as tuition goes, it is pretty affordable for in-state students. Tuition for one year is $8,973. Out of state tuition is $25,601 a year. Room and board is around $8,169 a year. Books and supplies are around $1,008 a year. Food at the dorms is slightly overpriced. You are to choose a meal plan for the quarter and an average meal at one of the dining halls costs about 8 dollars. On the silver meal plan which is the one I picked, I found out that I could only spend around 12 dollars a day on food and I quickly ran out of dining hall money and had to add more. An alternative to the dining halls would be to eat out on the ave. The ave is a large strip of restaurants that are cheep and cater to college students budgets. Overall, tuition is affordable for in-state students and like any public university is more expensive for out of state students. The food is overpriced, but everything else is affordable.

Am enjoying being here

I enjoy being here. The campus is large and there are a lot of different activities offered to people with different interests. The intramural activities building called the IMA is one of the nicest workout facilities I have been to. There are basketball courts, swimming pools, weights, volleyball, and much more. There are also places for people to gather and play video games like at Ian's domain in McCarty hall. Sporting events like basketball and football games are always fun to attend and have great student turnout and attendance. We also have a large greek row and every house has a lot of different social activities going on. There are activities for everyone here and I enjoy everything that this campus has to offer.

Am learning a lot

The courses that I have taken so far here have been challenging. They challenge you to think and formulate ideas beyond what textbooks tell you. Also, since the university operates on a quarter system, there is less time to learn all the material that is thrown at you so it is necessary to stay on top of the material. I have learned a lot in my time spent here through the challenges presented.

Martina from Kent, WA

The University of Washington is a great place for students of any culture. Being open minded, respectful, and determined is what it takes.

Tips for prospective students

There are a lot of advisors that would love to help you feel more comfortable with your education, leading you to choose the right career. Meeting new friends through clubs or classmates that are interested in the same things you are can also help guide you through college.

Bang for the buck

It is sort of pricey for tuition especially if you are paying out of your own pocket. It costs about 3,000 a quarter if you do full time. Still, you learn alot ( depending on the professors and class) and it is a good school to be in.

Am enjoying being here

I do enjoy being here, it is a very diverse place. We have students from all over the world and it is really fun to meet so many different people of different culture. There are also hundreds of clubs you can join! I'm not exaggerating, it can be anywhere from a cultural club to a fried chicken club. The campus itself is also beautifully built. It has that nice vintage/antique buildings and especially the suzzalo library. What is useful is that they have a 24-hour library too. Another thing I absolutely love is how the campus strives to be ecofriendly with their biodegradable utensils, biodegradable napkins, compost bins, and they are in the progress of remodeling an environmentally friendly building for activities. Other than just being eco-friendly, with each enrollment is a free gym membership at the IMA next to the husky stadium. The gym is really nice, clean, huge and it is really comfortable to work out in. Overall the campus is a really lively, resourceful, and great place to be.

Am learning a lot

No doubt I learn a lot from all my courses at the University of Washington. I have taken courses from biology, chemistry, English, music, art, to astronomy. Although some courses were tougher than others, as long as you try to understand those harder classes by asking the professor or TA questions, the topics you learn will definitely improve your knowledge and warms you up for other higher level courses. In each class I have taken so far, I apply to my everyday life; sometimes without even realizing! Like depicting art, questioning statistics, writing a 10 page essay, and engaging in intellectual conversations. At the UW, they have so many resources that can help you to succeed like free tutoring, teacher assistants, and clubs.

Do your absolute best in high school! Make sure you have more than just grades, because UW looks for students that do more than just attend class!

Bang for the buck

It's totally worth it. I personally have to take out loans but I don't regret it at all!

Am enjoying being here

I rushed a sorority and joined the one that fit me best! Best decision of my life. I love every minute of it, the girls have become not only my sisters but my best friends! I'm constantly meeting new people, and no, not all the frat guys are bad.

Am learning a lot

I know that the University of Washington offers a great academic program. Their School of Social Work is the 3rd best in the country so I know that I will learn from the best. Some of the classes are large, but those always have quiz sections! Professors are intriguing and really care about your education.

Anonymous

06/26/2011

Reviewer is A past student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Come to UW if.... -you don't mind the rain and gloomy weather (this last almost everyday of the school year) -you are open minded -you are independent and can learn fast and well on your own -you are outgoing and not afraid to put yourself out there to make new friends -you want to be very involved with different organizations -you know what you want to major in Don't come here if... -you hate rainy and cloudy weather for 95% of the school year -you need a lot of extra help in classes -you are looking for a small school feel -you do not plan on joining any college organizations (it is very hard to meet friends otherwise) -You do not know what you want to major in yet

Tips for prospective students

-During the first quarter of your freshman year, join a FIG (freshman interest group). It will help you meet people and provide you the opportunity to have smaller classes. -Come in knowing what your major is and with a plan. Meet with an advisor as soon as possible. -Start planning all four years right away -Take advantage of your surroundings! Skiing and hiking is only about a thirty minute drive away, Downtown Seattle is 10min drive away -Join CLUBS! They will help you meet people -Sign up for classes you are only truly interested in unless they are apart of your major... otherwise it's a lot of work for nothing!

Bang for the buck

UW is very reasonably priced for in-state students. You get what you pay for in my opinion. However, out of state tuition very expensive for what you get. Although University of Washington is considered a public ivy and one of the best universities in the country.

Did enjoy being here

The Seattle Campus is not big, it's HUGE! There are over 40,000 students at the campus so don't be surprised if you feel like you are just a number. I am from Seattle, and I can even admit, it rains a lot here. Especially when you have to walk outside for most of the day. Come prepared with rainboots and a nice rain jacket. That being said, it is a beautiful campus with a diverse student body. There are so many different clubs, etc. If you are looking for a very personable college experience with a lot of professor student interactions, look elsewhere.

Did learn a lot

As a freshman at UW, you should be prepared for large classes. Don't be surprised if you find yourself sitting in a lecture hall with seven hundred students around you and with a clicker in hand (for attendance purposes). However, even though the classes are large the professors are engaging and generally come very well prepared for lecture. Also the big lecture classes are supplemented by a quiz section class once a week where many of your questions will be answered. Contacting professors can be tricky as some do not take emails, only the TA's do sometimes. Once you get into higher level classes in your major the professors seem more approachable and you start meeting more people. The big lecture halls are hard to meet people in. Overall, I learned a lot at the UW.

Alex from Redmond, WA

06/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I think that the UW has something for everyone. The only time I would not suggest going here is if you know exactly what you want to do in life and have enough money to spend on an ivy league. Otherwise, the UW has almost every major imaginable and some of the most insanely random classes you can think of. It really has something for everyone.

Tips for prospective students

If you're a science major, you /must/ join a research lab. The UW is a research university, there are literally thousands of amazing research projects going on at all times. Start as early as freshman year! It's something that looks great on a resume, and if you can get a recommendation from a professor doors will open to hundreds of scholarships and internships. As for more general advice: be friendly! A lot of people complain that it's hard to make friends in the classroom setting - it shouldn't be! The person sitting quietly next to is just as nervous and eager to start up a conversation as you are! Some just has to start the conversation :)

Bang for the buck

If you're coming from in-state, the UW is almost certainly your best bet. It's an incredible university for the price. In most fields of study the UW is just behind the ivy leagues - and they charge almost 4 times as much for tuition. Alas, be prepared for steeply rising tuition prices and increasing class sizes. Next year they're planning a 15% tuition hike and are firing dozens of TAs and professors...

Am enjoying being here

Lots of brilliant students, a vast array of extracurricular activities and some of the best professors in the world, an absolutely gorgeous athletic club (the IMA), right next to a vibrant city - what more can you ask for? Only one thing: weather. Be prepared for lots of gloomy days. But hey! So many dark days just make the sunny ones that much better! As soon as Spring and Summer arrive the university (especially the Quad - you must see the pictures!!!) becomes absolutely gorgeous. People have weddings there.

Am learning a lot

As many people have already mentioned, there are many classes with hundreds of students. I, personally, simply cannot learn unless I am interacting with my professor, so I have had to seek ways to find smaller classes. And alas! They do exist! They are the honors classes. Yes, they are much, much harder; but at the same time they are very much worth it. Honors classes have much less people (30-40, rather than >200), the professors are more than willing to tell you about their research or about current developments in the field, have the brightest students of the university and will allow you to make powerful contacts that there is simply no other way to meet (one of my professors was the chairman of the chemistry department and another was the literally the most respected and best funded chemistry professor in the department). I have made it a point to take honors classes over regular classes whenever possible. Otherwise, I'm stuck in a class with hundreds of students who don't care about the material, a professors reading from slides or from the textbook, and an overall wake me when it's over atmosphere.

always bother and email your professors. dont be behind. take notes when you read.

Bang for the buck

I have to say a majority of the TA's suck! so depending on your ta, your grade might be beautiful or what not. the clue centers/ic tutoring arent very helpful. truth is, there is just too many people and too little resources to help everyone.

Am enjoying being here

I am an out of state student, this is a priceless experience. There are lots of fun things to do.

Am learning a lot

I took calculus in high school, so I didnt really learn anything new for math YET. I learned a lot of stuff, but I am not sure how useful it is. I learn and forget, since that's what its like at UW. I have to say, teachers teach out of the book, so I can learn from the book, the professors literally say things straight out of the book.

Austen from Nooksack, WA

08/23/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who can handle really tough course loads and keep up with the work on their own accord. There's no babysitting here, you just have to take care of business. Also, people who hate the rain probably shouldn't go to the UW.

Tips for prospective students

You might want to try buying your textbooks somewhere other than the Bookstore, which has steep prices. I have had friends buy books cheap online, and then sell them back to the Bookstore--- they made money on textbooks, rather than losing an arm and a leg over them!!

Bang for the buck

There is a lot of awesome stuff at the UW, and the campus was just recently ranked number one for top green schools by Sierra Magazine, which I thought was really cool. You get the draw of Pac 10 sports, high-end facilities, a beautiful campus located in an amazing city.... But, it's fricken expensive! Tuition keeps rising and since it's a public school, they aren't handing out big scholarships all the time. Hello large students loans!

Am enjoying being here

My freshman year was kind of tough. It's a huge change, and you really have to put yourself out there and make yourself available to make friends when you are going to school with thousands of people.

Am learning a lot

Going from a really small town to the UW, there's no doubt I'm learning a lot. I feel like the majority of it is self-taught, because with a school population this big you don't have teachers looking over your shoulder telling you what to do. If you pay attention in class and read the other materials then you will certainly learn a huge amount.

Allinee from Bonney Lake, WA

12/31/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Independent, self-motivated learners. Students concerned about the environment - we have a wide variety of go green initiatives, led by SEED. Students interested in research - we are a research university, after all. Students who want to experience life in the city, but without sacrificing their love of the outdoors and nature.

Tips for prospective students

The essay is the MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE APPLICATION. I cannot stress this enough. I know people who had higher GPAs and SAT scores than me who didn't get in because of their essay. In general, it is good idea to write about a moment of family or personal crisis, and show how that revealed your strengths and/or weaknesses, and how it has helped define who you are. Make sure you have 2 to 3 people read it if you're not confident, but make sure your own unique voice still shines through. Also, pay attention to the study tips and resources they give you at orientation - they sound cheesy, but they really do work. If you can, do the Outdoor Adventures orientation, even if you're not an outdoorsy person. You create bonds that make the big school a little less daunting.

Bang for the buck

With recent funding cuts from the state, tuition is practically an arm and a leg - and that's in-state. The state is considering making even more cuts to our funding, which might result in more tuition hikes, and lower quality of education. Living on-campus is even more expensive - I strongly recommend looking into renting a room in a house in the UDistrict, or a nearby apartment; in most cases that's cheaper than paying for on-campus housing. With that in mind, the UW is considered to be a public ivy league institution, so in a way, you're getting a bit more bang for your buck here than at other public universities.

Am enjoying being here

I love campus life! If you live in the dorms, the meals do get a little repetitive, but that is one of the few downsides. The Ave, which is right next to campus, has tons of great restaurants, and clothing stores that appeal to the college student on a budget. The campus itself is gorgeous, and the UPass gives you the freedom to explore all that Seattle has to offer. For me personally, it's never boring.

Am learning a lot

Adjusting to the larger, entry-level classes can be a bit daunting, but having a little initiative and utilizing the TAs, CLUE, study centers for subjects like math and chemistry, and talking to the professors really helps. Many of the professors are passionate about what they're teaching, and love to discuss questions with students. As a larger university, it does require more effort and initiative on the student's part to learn the material and pass the class, but I believe that this better prepares us for the real world.

Katelyn from Menomonee Falls, WI

Occasionally there are robberies, but other than that as long as you're smart there shouldn't be any problems. Make sure to travel in groups late at night.

Greek Life

So far everyone I have met through greek life is really nice. Although I am not in it myself.

Clubs and Activities

There is pretty much every type of club or activity at UW. If it doesn't exist you can make one yourself.

Great for these types of students

Studious, motivated, interested in engineering/pre-med. UW is interested in students who have more to offer than academics.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rick's Cafe has the best ice cream during week days for only a dollar! In the Allen library there is a desk full of notes which students wrote to each other. The art building has a very cute coffee shop in the basement.

Bang for the buck

I had to pay out of state tuition, so that's not so wonderful. However, all of the opportunities at the University of Washington are well worth it. I got offered a job working in a cancer clinic and met with a professor to discuss research positions already in my first quarter. The travel abroad program is wonderful, and the professors I have are too.

What to do for fun

If you're interested in anything, there's probably a club at UW for it. I joined the salsa club and kayak club to try something different. There are many places nearby like movie theaters or concert halls. Downtown is always fun to visit too.

Food and Dining

There are many options available, especially vegetarian or gluten free. I didn't get sick of the food since I could change it up quite a bit.

Dorm Life

I like the people that I live with, but I found most of my friends outside of the dorms. Some floors are more exciting than others, but I enjoyed the experience.

Academic Rigor

I was surprised by how rigorous the classes I took were. Looking back, I have learned so much because of this. In order to succeed one must work extremely hard.

Tips for prospective students

Always make sure to reach out for extra help. Go to professor's office hours and find people with similar interests. The effort you put into your classes will determine what you get out of a class. Don't forget to have fun!

In three sentences

Attending the University of Washington has been one of my best decisions. The opportunities offered are phenomenal, especially undergraduate research. There is a great deal of help offered, and I feel that I am constantly being challenged to do my best.

Apply early, get help from as many people as possible with those application essays. If you can afford it, live in the dorms - you don't meet many people otherwise. If you can't live on campus, and even if you can, consider a joining a Freshman Interest Group to meet people, and join a lot of clubs.

Bang for the buck

If you're out of state, the UW makes very clear to your wallet that it would really rather that you came from Washington. In state, tuition is skyrocketing and financial aid is disappearing; the state cut 50% of need-based aid, and suspended a scholarship that was supposed to pay for two years of my tuition.

Am enjoying being here

I don't live on campus, and I didn't take a Freshman Interest Group, so it's been hard to meet people. I'm in one club and go to a lot of events and really enjoy them, but it's still been a little tough to break through and make friends.

Am learning a lot

You get back what you put in. If you take the hard classes, especially Honors, you'll learn a lot. Even if you don't take the hardest course load, you might find your self learning all the same. Most of the classes are extremely informative, though some of the professors are more focused on their research than on their teaching.

Yue

Those who can bear frequent rain as well as poor administration and enjoy different kinds of activities as well as beautiful views will find this school exciting.

Tips for prospective students

Watch the ads in the newspaper, on the bulletin boards, and on the websites; try a variety of things. Thus, you will learn a lot in and beyond the academic field.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is not very high, but the living expense is. For the academic experience, if one is exposed to the resources on and beyond campus, is should be worth money. As for the living expense, one can make use of the free pizza resources in the activities around the campus, like clubs.

Am enjoying being here

The administration may cause inconvenience and unhappiness; for example, students with several AP and Running Start credits may find it difficult to get into course at their level. The scenery, galleries, museums, clubs, and those not directly related to the administration are, however, rich for one to enjoy.

Am learning a lot

Although one may not learn much from the lectures because of the generally large class size, he or she can learn a lot from the resources, such as clubs, galleries, museums, and events, around and beyond campus. Combining volunteer work and internships, students can even learn more.

Diana from Bellevue, WA

06/13/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I think anyone can fit in at UW unless it is extremely necessary for you to have a small class where you can know the professor well. Usually this is ok because there are quiz sections with the TA where its a small class size.

Tips for prospective students

Because the school is so large, some people may feel lost when they enter freshman year, but there are many programs to help you out if you look. There are always counselors for help and there are freshman interest groups that you can do in fall quarter that help you meet people and adjust to college.

Bang for the buck

I'm in-state so its cheaper for me, but tuition is increasing every year.

Am enjoying being here

I really like UW, there's a lot of clubs and activities to do. I lived in the dorm for freshman and sophomore year and it was great.

Am learning a lot

It really is what you make out of your courses. People always complain about how large the classes are making it really impersonal, which is true, but both the professor and TA's hold office hours and people can go in to ask questions. You can also ask questions before or after class if you would like, or email the professor. They may not know your name, but if you go in enough, they'll recognize you so its up to you. And when you get to higher level courses, the class size will be a lot smaller, its only the intro courses that have hundreds of students.

Hayley from Anacortes, WA

08/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is great for people who are self-motivating. There is always help available, but you have to go and get it yourself, no one will come to you if you need help. At a lot of schools everyone has an adviser or counselor that helps point them in the right direction with classes and majors and other opportunities. We have these services at UW and the people who do them are really wonderful, but they will only help if you go looking for them.

Tips for prospective students

Getting involved is one of the most important things to do at this school but it's also important to remember not to overload yourself. Just pick one or two things to get involved in during the year. It's a great way to make friends and keep yourself sane when classes get tough.

Bang for the buck

UW is one of the top schools in the world and has been compared many times to ivy league schools for it's wonderful professors and the level of education provided. The cost, on the other hand, is not even close to that of an ivy league school. There are so many free programs to get involved in, free seminars to attend, free events that are only available to students. It is a costly school, but if you take advantage of what's being offered, it's worth every penny and more.

Am enjoying being here

Coming to a school this big is a bit daunting. It can be hard to put yourself out there at the start of a new year when it's easier just to sit in your dorm and loose yourself in books. Getting involved in groups, however, can make this one of the best and funnest schools ever. There are countless clubs, groups and programs that only take a moment to join but will allow you to meet the people you could be friends with for life. Also being in Seattle means that there are always fun events going on all over the city. It only takes a few minutes on a bus to be in the heart of down town where there is tons of shopping at well known stores, pikes place market, great restaurants and beautiful sights. If being in a big city is not what you're looking for then UW is also great because campus is like it's own little town and you never have to leave, everything you need is right there. There are also tons of parks and gardens to relax with nature.

Am learning a lot

The professors here have their priorities straight. The most important thing to them is that they are doing a good job teaching their students and giving them the education they paid for. Even in classes with hundreds of students, the professors will often bend over backwards to be able to meet with students and help out in any way they can. If professors are not available to help, then the TA's step up and provide the help needed. They all have certain office hours but more often than not they will be happy to meet at any time during the week.

Brandon from Virginia Beach, VA

If the opportunity presents itself, I will be sure to comment in this area once I have more experience and observation with the student pool.

Tips for prospective students

None at this time, I am not one myself.

Bang for the buck

Just not sure in this category. I will adjust this answer if I am accepted and once I have some more knowledge.

Will enjoy being here

Absolutely. So far my interaction with everyone at the University of Washington has been pleasant and helpful to say the least. I have spoken with both faculty and current students and all seem full of pride to be a part of the university.

Will learn a lot

The University of Washington rates very high in a number of varied categories according to U.S. News & World Report. They are mentioned specifically for their medical and anthropology programs as well as diversity and rounded body of student organizations.

Kimberly from Woodland, WA

Engineering majors, research majors--basically anything that involves math and science.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely do a lot of research--the website is a HUGE help. Make sure you take initiative and contact and advisor for the department you want to transfer into--it sets you apart from other students that are applying. Don't be afraid to ask questions!

Bang for the buck

I'm planning on transferring after I complete my AS in civil engineering--if you have UW on your transcript when you apply for a job, you're almost a shoe-in.

Will enjoy being here

Definitely. The campus is gorgeous, full of unique culture and architecture, and it's also in the middle of the Emerald City. What's not to like?

Will learn a lot

I've gone to some open-house things when I was in middle school--the engineering departments had a lot of fun things for kids to do to get them interested and involved in some awesome math/science topics!

Nasiroh from Seattle, WA

11/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I personally think that UW is great for all types of students. The school caters well to different kinds of people; if you're the type of person that is outgoing and social, there's a strong Greek presence here on campus and there's many ways to interact with people whether its through clubs or intramural sports. If you're the type of person that is focused on school work, there's a lot of different places on campus that have quiet policies and Hansee, which is one of the dorm buildings, has a 24 hour quiet policy for students who tend to study a lot and are focused on school work.

Tips for prospective students

My number one tip for perspective students is that if you really want to go to UW you have to make yourself standout. UW is getting harder to get into and the school is looking for a lot of out of state and international kids so if you want to come to UW make something about your application stand out. Choose something about you and expand on that.

Bang for the buck

I can say that you get what you pay for here. Considering that the majority of professors on the UW campus are research professors that are experts in their field and the books they use are written by them and that's what they use in class you get a really good sense of understanding what you're learning. Its daunting that this isn't high school anymore but after a while you realize that your professors are really approachable here and you can ask them a question in person or through e-mail and you know that you'll get the answer that you're looking for.

Am enjoying being here

The best part of the University of Washington is that before the school year begins, they have these events called Dawg Daze and its just a way for everyone to meet new people. Its just all these planned events that last for 2 or so weeks where they just want the students to have fun and explore everything that UW has to offer. The big events are the concert in Red Square and the midnight Fred Meyer shopping where Fred Meyer is closed for only UW students that want to go shopping. After Dawg Daze is over UW makes sure that there's a lot of activities that keep the students involved whether it is through clubs or activities that they promote around campus. THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO ON CAMPUS.

Am learning a lot

Being at UW allowed me to explore what I was interested in and I am learning a lot. After you get pass the notion that ALL college classes are these huge masses of people where you're just a small fish in a big pond, you realize that its not like that for all of your classes. If you have a lecture class then its probably going to be like that, but I find that my teachers/professors are really approachable. Also when you take your quiz section, yes it is usually taught by the TA, but they work extremely close with your professor so they know almost all of what you're being taught. Also because the quiz sections are smaller classes, you get to meet people more easily and its not as scary.

Rocio from Sultan, WA

11/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If your looking for a great place away from home or close place from home UW is the place for you. Also if you don't mind the rain; for outdoor and tree hugger lovers this is a great place to come. One thing is sure, if you love diversity the University of Washington is the niche for you.

Tips for prospective students

It is honor to be a Seattle Lite because at UW we work for the greater good; not just for students, but for our community. We UW students like to give back to our community, so if you like volunteering there are thousands of opportunities here.

Bang for the buck

The UW offers many scholarships like the Husky Promise. The financial aid office will work with you to make money not a problem.

Am enjoying being here

I enjoy being at the UW because it is very diverse and you don't go bored one day. Everyone here in Seattle is nice and cheerful even when it rains, which is half of the time. There are great places to visit in campus like the Burke Museum and UW students get free admission into it. Downtown Seattle is also filled with exciting activities like the Aquarium and the Woodland Park Zoo.

Am learning a lot

The University of Washington is known for it's great research opportunities. There are hundreds of fun and engage you in learning even when you don't notice it. The staff and faculty are amazing here they want you to succeed at the University of Washington and take the time to help you.

Roxanne from Vancouver, WA

Who want job opportunities, a world-class education, are willing to be competitive, and hard-working.

Tips for prospective students

Be well-rounded. Do clubs, activities, and academics. Stick it out with things, as well. Don't just do one year of a million things; do a few things really well.

Bang for the buck

Ranked the 25th best college in the WORLD, and the 14th best college in America, yet it's a public school. Even with out-of-state tuition, this world class education is a steal.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is beautiful, the city is amazing, and the people are brilliant! I love being at the UW.

Am learning a lot

The variety of classes offered is astounding! Classes can be hyper-specific (Intro to Folklore Studies or a class just on the Alexander the Great!) or general, and meet any need a student could have. The quality of teachers, classes, and education is top-notch.

Anna from Ellensburg, WA

01/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Food and Dining

the dining services are very good, although also very expensive. food is available most of the day, and convenience stores are open until 1am. there is a good selection of foods at the dorm dining areas and there is a subway on campus as well.

Dorm Life

most of the dorms are average, but there is generally enough room per person and the living areas are kept clean by custodians. many of the dorm buildings are beautiful, and several new ones are being built currently. living in a cluster is not suggested for freshmen looking to meet people, as there is not a lot of inter-cluster activity available.

Academic Rigor

science classes here are very competitive and the general chem/bio/physics classes are designed to wean out people who struggle with the material. computer science is also very challenging and the grading curve can be tough to beat.

Tips for prospective students

make sure you're ready to be in 600-person classes, especially if you are going into the sciences. many majors are very competitive, especially the health science ones, so have a backup plan if you want to pursue those degrees. get the bronze dining account plan if you want to spend less money--the ave has a lot of cheaper, better food and it's very close to campus.

In three sentences

great for those who can adapt to a huge campus and large classes. it can be hard to adjust to all the different kinds of people here, but in the end it's terrific for learning about other cultures. seattle is a beautiful city but the weather can get tiresome at times.

Andrew Joseph from Las Vegas, NV

as with most areas, there is a little crime, but uw is a fairly safe place. night ride and night walk are programs available to students who don't want to walk alone at night.

Clubs and Activities

interested in relay for life? uw has one of the largest collegiate relays in the nation. interested in research? there are a ton of research opportunities at uw. don't worry about majors either. almost all majors have research opportunities.

Great for these types of students

love the rain? it rains a lot at uw. pre-med? uw is one of the best medical schools in the nation.

Bang for the buck

for in-state students, this school is an amazing choice. if you're from out-of-state, uw is definitely on the pricier side. nevertheless, if you have the money, the school has plenty of opportunities that make going to uw worth it.

What to do for fun

if you live in seattle, you'll notice a lot of green. take advantage of it. go on a hike. during the summer, the waterfront activities center lets you rent out canoes. canoeing is a great way to spend a nice summer afternoon.

Food and Dining

as discussed in the previous section, dorm food isn't all that great. however, the ave features a couple really nice places. if you love thai food, thai tom and thai 65 are awesome. mod pizza is quick and fast. my favorite place on the ave is aladdin's gyrocery. if you've never had a gyro, you'll be pleased here.

Dorm Life

from what i've heard, dorm life isn't bad. food could be better for some halls. i never lived in the dorms, so i can't say much.

Academic Rigor

as a science major, chemistry is easily the most complained about subject. english can be a bother for many also. most classes here stress reading and self-studying. as with most colleges, your grade is primarily determined by the few tests you take. the quarter goes by fast. overall, if you can keep up with studying and reading, you'll be fine.

Tips for prospective students

search for utilize the opportunities available. no one just hands them out to you. there are plenty, but you have to ask for them. network with people! meeting new people at uw is a great way to jump start your future. buy a good rain jacket if you don't have one.

In three sentences

uw is an awesome school that has limitless opportunities for almost everyone. the school excels in its science subjects, but it's majors in other departments are definitely still top-notch. don't let the rain bring you down.

Andrew from Kent, WA

i hear there are about 700 clubs on campus, so there is a club for everybody.

Bang for the buck

at about $23,000 a year for in-state students uw rivals any college prices and offers some of the best education in the world; definitely worth it. a negative thing is that the general classes (biology 180, chem 142, math 124, etc) have about 400-700 students in them, cutting into one on one teaching time (although each of these classes has break out classes of about 25 students taught by tas twice a week).

What to do for fun

seattle is only 20 minutes away by bus and the u district has shopping, and lots of food places on the ave and u village. there are also parties on greek row (ladies for free, guys guest list or like $10 depending on which party). there's meany theater on campus that has concerts and plays too. the ima is a humongous, free gym with basketball, racquetball, and volleyball courts, a pool, huge weight room, archery range, and indoor track that everyone can enjoy.

Food and Dining

there is a variety of food served in the dorms including sandwiches, pizza, italian, and a 'choice of the day'. it isn't terrible, but gets a little dull after a couple of quarters; definitely manageable though.

Dorm Life

the dorms are a great place to meet a lot of people. i was on an all male floor and it was really boring because guys generally don't get out in the halls and talk a lot to their floor mates; this is the only insight i can give. some people love it and some would rather live in alternating housing.

Academic Rigor

the classes are different from high school, focusing on analysis and interpretation rather than memorization. there usually are daily readings of 10-25 pages in class (50 a day for the higher level english classes). time management is essential to academic success at uw.

Tips for prospective students

make uw a smaller community; it's easy to get lost in 40,000 people! join a fraternity or sorority, form study groups, pick freshmen interest groups (figs); these will help you meet more people and feel like a real part of the uw.

In three sentences

the university of washington is a diverse college with vast amounts of resources that allow you to become anybody you'd like to be in your career. the classes are taught by professors that lead their fields of study and are highly knowledgeable in the course work. it deserves its place as one of the best universities in the world.

Stella from Edmonds, WA

03/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Very good here. There's a late night service we can call, though most people don't use it because they have friends to walk with. However, if you're alone, definitely call them up and have them escort you off campus. They're more than happy to come out. Not to mention, you get to feel like a mafia father for a short while.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is expensive here, compared to other schools in this state! They just keep raising the prices. Fortunately, Washington state attempts to help as best they can, though that can be questionable. Your money can really burn here, but if you know what to look for and how to manage your money, you're well off enough.

What to do for fun

It really depends on what you find fun and though it is cliche, you can find anything, except perhaps body surfing. Anything is possible and accessible. It's just a matter of finding a place. Time does not matter...unless it's singing belcanto at 2 in the morning, but then, I do that and no one complains.

Food and Dining

It's better to eat out than it is to eat on campus because most food is so-so. However, it's only a couple blocks off campus before you find a row of choices spanning five blocks or more.

Dorm Life

It really depends on where you're staying. The new dorms are great, but definitely expensive.

Academic Rigor

Science classes can be very time-consuming, but the university offers a lot of help. I've heard that classes for the arts can be very fun. However, classes for the arts receive a lot less bias on the teacher due to less or more fun work. Success really depends on discipline and working well with other people, even if that's only the TA. One person is better than none.

Tips for prospective students

Do not look up your teachers for their ratings or peer reviews. Positive results up your confidence, but negative results stress you out. Both cause a subconscious bias towards how you will handle the class. It's better to go in with no preconceptions of the teacher than to have any negative expectations.

In three sentences

Due to size, it can be pretty lonely if you don't make time for friends, clubs, or events. Though there's a lot you can do, everything is focused on interests, not so much exploration and curiosity. They offer many resources and help here that it kind of makes it hard to be independent, even if, in the atmosphere, people vacillate between expecting independence and expecting you to be dependent.

Happy UW Student

It is all about making the right choices. I trust the UW Police Department and there are a lot of resources that students have to ensure their safety.

Bang for the buck

Completely worth your money if you use all of your resources. Go to CLUE reviews, use the history writing center, work out at the IMA, and keep your eyes open for UW student discounts around Seattle.

What to do for fun

Play Frisbee in the Quad. Go rollerskating at the IMA on Friday nights. Get a friend to teach you how to play racquetball. Treat yourself to bubble tea on the Ave. Walk to Gas Works park for a picnic!

Food and Dining

Decent. UW is a big school with a lot of people, so it helps to be early or late for meals if you would like to avoid long lines. The food is nothing special, but there are definitely lots of good vegetarian options (LOVE the Neato Burritos). UW also heavily emphasizes composting in its dining halls, which I consider to be a big plus.

Dorm Life

It is all about the people that you live with. The dorms themselves are nothing special, at least the older ones aren't (UW is opening some new green housing). In my hall, people keep their doors open and we are all good friends. Make an effort to know your neighbors!

Academic Rigor

You can pick how rigorous you would like your schedule to be. Rigor also depends on particular classes. In my experience, there has been more work involved with science and math courses than in history ones, but that may be related to the fact that I am a science major, and have therefore only taken entry-level history courses.

Tips for prospective students

The UW seems really big at first, and it can be hard to make friends at first, but take time and don't be afraid to talk to people and understand that friendships take time. Once you find a stable group of friends, you will feel more secure, you will have people to study with, and people to de-stress with. And if you ask me, it is the people that you spend time with that make or break college, so it is critical to find friends who respect your academic life as well as fulfill your social one.

Kristopher from Orange City, FL

I've read reviews about the priciness of the food, but I'm more of an eat-at-home kind of guy, surviving off of ramen, tea, and pocky. Of course, my fiancee is a great cook too!

Dorm Life

I'm not really looking too much at living in the dorms. Sure, it'd be a great experience, aside from my current experiences with dorm life, but ultimately, I want to live in Seattle, so by the time I get in at the UW, I'll probably have my own apartment.

Academic Rigor

I hear they want students with a GPA of around 3.0 or higher. My GPA was, at best, a 2.9, and I'm working on taking my ACT next month. But I'm really hoping I can get those high scores, and that my involvement in the Job Corps Program will shed some light on the kind of student I really am, and not the subpar student I came off as in high school.

In three sentences

From what I've seen, this school has everything I'm looking for: game and graphic design, software programming, Japanese, and a lot of other extracurricular activities and classes I may join to expand my horizons. This is the university I want to attend, and I'm really pushing myself to prove that I'm worth getting in, even though I wasn't the most studious student in the past. Here's hoping to that!

Brooke from Sumner, WA

05/09/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

While there is very little crime on campus, the surrounding neighboorhoods where some students live do have some crime issues. Many crimes are reported by the university police department to the students and staff through the email system.

Greek Life

The University of Washington - Seattle Campus has a very prevalent Greek system that is considered large for the west coast.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for anything you could possibly imagine. A club fair takes place at the beginning of the school year for students to learn what clubs are on campus and meet the people who run them.

Great for these types of students

This school has a very large greek system so anyone interested in the sorority or fraternity experience would enjoy this school. Students interested in pre-health majors who want to pursue medical school would benefit from attending this university.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are a number of attractions on campus. There is a Harry Potter room which is a silent study room in one of our libraries that looks as though it is from a Harry Potter movie. At the beginning of every quarter, there is a student group that plays a sort of gigantic game of tag called Zombies vs. Humans. Anyone can join and it often causes entertaining chases on campus.

Bang for the buck

Cost versus benefits will depend on your major and your tuition rate. In-state students can expect a high quality education for what they pay. Those students who choose to major in health sciences, engineering, nursing, and other areas that this university specializes in will see the most bang for their buck.

What to do for fun

Students stay entertained by attending sporting events, music, dance, or comedy performances, going out to bars or clubs, or staying active at our fantastic fitness facility. A short bus ride downtown opens up other possibilities of shopping, concerts, activist events, sight seeing, and many other fun activities.

Food and Dining

The food is really hit or miss at this university. Dining accounts are required for all students staying in dorms. These dining accounts pay for any food or other items purchased at university-run dining facilities, mini-markets, food trucks and coffee shops. While many of the foods are on the pricier side, they offer a multitde of options for those with dietary restrictions. In addition, there is an impressive number of nearby restaurants with cuisines from all over the world that offer low prices to compete for patrons.

Dorm Life

Although new dorm buildings are coming up over the course of the next year or so, many of the housing options are outdated. If you want new, you will have to pay for it(but at least the option is there).

Academic Rigor

As with any school, there may be some easier classes, but almost all of this University's course offerings require some academic rigor. If you are admitted here, you likely have what it takes to be a successful student so the readings and homework that are standard for nearly every course shouldn't be a problem.

Tips for prospective students

I encourage any prospective students to visit the campus and take a tour. This university would be a great place to study for anyone who wants a high quality education, is interested in research, and/or doesn't mind some large lecture classes and its location is perfect for anyone who enjoys the urban lifestyle and the outdoors.

In three sentences

The humongous campus, long history, beautiful architecture, research credentials, and school pride contribute to an enjoyable experience for students at the University of Washington. No matter what your major is, you will find top professors to provide a high quality education so you can be proud to have this University's name on your degree.

A from Seattle, WA

05/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Theft is an issue around the campus as well as robberies late at night in the surrounding areas. Walking to and from campus late at night can be slightly intimidating, but there is a program to call for an escort if you feel you need one.

Greek Life

UW has a large Greek system that is pretty influential among certain areas of the campus. It's not for everybody and definitely not necessary for those more independent students or those who like to make up their own schedules.

Clubs and Activities

A large amount of clubs for anything you could think of, just look them up online or in the handbook for ideas and meeting times.

Great for these types of students

Self-driven and motivated students.

Bang for the buck

Although tuition costs are rising, and will continue to rise, it is a prestigious university that is well-known for many of its programs. As long as you have a decent plan and can graduate in 4 years (or even 4.5), it is very much worth it.

What to do for fun

There are lots of places around Seattle to go and visit, with plenty of great restaurants and parks with weather permitting. Nightlife: There are parties to go to within the Greek system as well as house parties and dorm hangouts. Once you're 21, there's plenty of popular bars in the U-district and Fremont that are frequented by college students.

Food and Dining

Great surrounding restaurants within walking distance from the university or one bus away.

Dorm Life

Great opportunity to meet people who in the same circumstances as you, however there are many students who go home to surrounding areas for the weekends.

Academic Rigor

Very challenging classes and academic environment within most colleges, there are also great opportunities offered for help if you go seek them out.

Tips for prospective students

Think seriously about the college you want to enter into and they type of job you want to be qualified for once you graduate from the university.

In three sentences

A large research university with great opportunities for self-driven students. A beautiful campus that flourishes in the spring, it presents many academic challenges and rewards for the focused student. It is located in a vibrant part of Seattle with great surrounding restaurants, bars, and activities for those who go looking for them.

Hamza from Kent, WA

There are a lot of food options, both on campus and directly off campus (on The Ave). With only a five to ten minute walk, you have access to ethnic cuisine from all around the world.

Dorm Life

I have never lived in the dorms, but friends of mine that have say it isn't too bad. The roommates that you are either assigned or pick out are the largest determining factor.

Academic Rigor

Although this depends on the major as well, most science majors here are designed to challenge and test you to your capable limits. There are some courses which are incredibly easy filler courses while others will have you spending hours per day wondering what is going on.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to apply early. Well rounded applicants are much more likely to get in than those who are completely bookworms or completely social.

In three sentences

It is a research-based university, which means not all professors are going to be extremely enthusiastic about teaching students. There are a lot of upsides to that as well, because some of these professors are the top in their fields of study and getting positions in their labs can pump up your resume a whole lot. Overall, it has a great balance between large introductory courses and the smaller, more advanced courses.

Cassie from Seattle, WA

09/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Greek Life

Amazing! As a member of a greek organization, going Greek at UW has opened the doors to such a better experience at UW. There are lots of events and ways to meet people (and no, no just parties), and joining this community has made UW feel much smaller.

What to do for fun

The Ave has everything from shopping to restaurants, and the HUB on campus has a variety of activities. Also, the more involved you get with campus organizations, the more fun you will have!

Food and Dining

Amazing! With multiple on campus dining options from food carts, to cafes to full-service restaurants (all on the husky card account), to the Ave with everything from Thai food to classic college favorites like Chipotle, you will never be hungry- or unsatisfied!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is getting better at UW with the building of some new dormitory buildings and residence halls. However, some of the old (and rather gross) dorm buildings are still being used. They are also pretty expensive compared to off-campus living.

Academic Rigor

UW is tough- there is no getting around that. Classes are extremely difficult, but excellent professors usually make difficult classes better. Certain majors are more difficult that other of course, so if you are planning on going into the sciences, medicine or engineering- be ready for some tough work....

Tips for prospective students

Keep up your GPA! UW is becoming more and more competitive, so you need to make sure your high school transcript shines!

In three sentences

University of Washington is an amazing university, which gives you the benefits of a large university combined with some of the Top- researchers and professors in the world. Best of all, this public institution is affordable for many students.

Allyson from Seattle, WA

It's a little sketchy here, but being careful solves most problems. The police respond quickly and there are shuttle systems available to drive people home if they need a safe ride.

Great for these types of students

Great University for anyone pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Nursing, Engineering, or any science related majors. While it is a highly recognized school for any major, these particularly stand out. UW also has great sports teams and intramurals.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Crieg Garden is a hidden away little garden in the middle of campus, absolutely adorable and is rarely found by students.

Bang for the buck

Great life, lots of different people mixing in a huge college, you'll meet people you never would have met otherwise.

Food and Dining

Food on campus is decent, but the nearby Ave or, University Way NE, is full of various, delicious restaurants. Since the student population controls almost the entire economy here, most of the food is pretty cheap, huge portions, and open late.

Academic Rigor

Pursuing an engineering major that only allows 65 students made the weed-out classes and prerequisites very competitive and difficult. Depending on the major, high GPA's are required along with research experience.

Tips for prospective students

Do what you love. Too many students attempt to follow a friend's, parent's, or what they think culture would support's idea of what major they should pursue. While all these people have good advice and input, once the studies get tough you'll need your own passion for the material to pull you through.

In three sentences

Beautiful school and campus with gorgeous gardens and brick buildings. UW's many classes provide a wide variety of degree options and accessibility for exploring other majors. The staff is also spectacular and most readily welcome students who are willing to learn and will provide research opportunities and offer connections for jobs.

Lyndsey from Lacey, WA

03/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Seattle is a large city, so it is incredibly important to stay alert, safe, aware of your surroundings. The university police are great at sending out alerts and keeping the students updated on crime around the district, but it's definitely not safe like the suburbs - you should always be with a buddy late at night and alert. I wouldn't feel safe walking by myself at certain hours on certain outskirts of campus.

Clubs and Activities

Intramural sports are great! I have been involved in the swing kids club for fun and that's definitely a blast, but on a more academic side the AED Pre-medical Honor's Society is excellent for pre-med students and connects them with students their age and older with tons of experience in course work and extra curricular opportunities, and it makes the competitive pre-med experience a hundred times better.

The Suzzalo and Allen libraries are fantastic, general places to study, but there are tons of underground nooks and crannies around campus that you may find are unique to you to be great study places. I love cafes right on the ave next to campus that are cozy and intimate places to study and relax!

Bang for the buck

Tuition rates have been rising (everywhere, really) and I've been fortunate to have financial aid. The university is fabulous, I value my education here so much, and I definitely think it is worth it all, but out of state tuition is incredibly expensive and I'm glad I don't have to deal with that!

What to do for fun

Buses can take you 10 minutes to downtown Seattle, which is a blast, but even the University District has tons of things to do all the time. Lots of fabulous places to eat, University Village with shopping is very close, and living in the city is so convenient for many things!

Food and Dining

Not that the food is bad, because it's definitely not! I feel like in any dorm cafeteria things eventually get kind of old, and you end up missing some of your mom's favorite meals back home!

Dorm Life

I lived in the dorms my freshman year and had a great time. The thing I miss most about living in the dorms is the conveniency of rolling out of bed and into class! I commute and have a while to and from campus. I lived in McMahon and that was a great experience for me.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the type of student you are, classes can be really really hard since they are so large. A lot of people have a hard time taking advantage of the opportunities provided to them, like professors' office hours, TA's office hours, extra free tutoring sessions, etc. But these things are so accessible and essential to doing well and not feeling alone in large classes!

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus. Take a tour with a student tour guide. Look up classes that you can sit in, and see how the atmosphere may be like in a large classroom, because at some point at the university you will likely have a large 500+ person lecture. Meet with departmental advisers or general advisers in the career center, and explore major opportunities early! Look into minors that may interest you and take plenty of 101 classes in areas that you may be interested in. A lot of people love Psychology 101 (myself included), Anthropology, Sociology classes, and more. I myself was on the pre-med track and the large classes are challenging, but I've learned so much about myself!

In three sentences

I absolutely love my school. It is a large university so that can go well or poorly depending on the type of student you choose to be, and what classes you end up taking. I love my beautiful campus, I have had some amazing professors, and I love attending the University of Washington.

Mckinzee from Ridgefield, WA

03/28/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Okay, so it can be a little sketch sometimes. We are in a city though, so what do you expect? Call night ride or some other on-campus student service and you should make it until at least winter quarter. I hope.

Greek Life

Can't say I'm all too knowledgeable about this. We have one? So that seems pretty good. If you know from the very start you plan on rushing, it is a solid option. Our Greek system is known to party hardy, but hey, they fit some philanthropy in there too.

Clubs and Activities

...Can I just paste a link here? We have so many Clubs and Student Activities, it's ridiculous.

Great for these types of students

I am a true believer that everyone has a little nerd in them, in some way or another. If you feel like letting the nerd out to cause a little commotion, this is a good place to do it. I've seen a lot of quirkiness on campus-- but I can't say that really bothers me.

Bang for the buck

I heard a rumor prices are increasing, but from my standpoint, this is a pretty good deal. Excellent education for public school price? Sign me up.

What to do for fun

I mean, it's Seattle. At any point in time there are a million activities to do. There is a reason we are such a sleepless city.

Food and Dining

While many college students simply settle with dining on The Ave, one of the biggest benefits to being in the big city is the plethora of dining options. Like, seriously. There are an overwhelming amount of options for any budget.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is convenient and a good experience for incoming freshmen. Upperclassmen, however, may find this experience to be less appealing.

Academic Rigor

Interested in research? We are too! This is a fantastic school to really delve into a more hands-on academic experience.

Tips for prospective students

Understand that while it is a large university, it is very easy to find your place in the school. By being an active participant at UW and making an effort to find groups that support your passions and interests, you can really make a large campus feel small.

In three sentences

The University of Washington provides endless resources that facilitate optimal enrichment of students' lives. When a challenging curriculum meets a campus full of vivacious student life, you can't help but feel school pride. Dubs up.

Kimberly

03/29/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The University of Washington is an extremely safe school- the school has its own Police Department, sends out texts and emails called UW Alerts to tell students about crimes that may have happened near the university, and has alert-systems around campus for students to use to call a policeman if they feel unsafe. There are also programs to escort students at night. Safety information is located throughout the school, and it is clear that student safety is very important to all UW employees.

Clubs and Activities

There are truly hundreds of clubs to join- there are options for everyone, and the people who run these clubs are very nice- they will almost always accept new members. If you don't see a club that you want, you may also create a club.

Great for these types of students

Competitive, determined students who are willing to work hard and won't get discouraged if they do badly on something (because you will eventually do badly on something here).

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you choose to go to the University of Washington, you must visit Rick's Cafe, situated in Haggett Hall. Rick's Cafe is a volunteer-run ice cream place that gives its customers plenty of ice cream; the cheapest option, one Rick's Serving of ice cream, or five scoops, is only $1. Rick's has other options as well that give the students even more ice cream. The most expensive option (only $5), gives students up to 25 scoops of ice cream. This delight, called the Are you serious?! is usually made for the birthdays that are celebrated at the cafe. Also, the cafe usually partners up with local clubs to help raise money for projects.

Bang for the buck

UW can be a little expensive if you're out-of-state, especially because the school reserves the majority of its financial-aid money to in-state students, but it's nothing unmanageable. Plus, considering the amazing resources you are receiving, the cost isn't too unreasonable.

What to do for fun

The University of Washington requires every student to pay for a bus pass, which is placed onto their student card. As a result, all the attractions of Downtown Seattle are at your fingertips, including the famous Pike Place Market, the Art Museum, and International District. If you want to stay a little closer to home, you can go to a football or basketball game, which are some of the favorite events. If you don't enjoy these sports, or perhaps want something cheaper, there are a variety of other options, including free-sporting events, choir and band concerts, and free events at the HUB (Husky Union Building).

Food and Dining

The dining options for this school are a lot better than most places; there is a variety of dining options open to students as well as a variety of meal options. You pay per item (not like a buffet-style meal plan), so dining can become a little expensive if you're not careful, but usually this isn't a problem.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is very nice- there are a lot of new dorms being built on campus, and naturally those are receiving the most attention recently; the new dorms on West Campus have a modern, techno feel to them, and each room has its own bathroom. The dorms on North Campus are older and have the community-style bathroom, but unlike the new dorms, these have a community-style lobbies as well where people can hang out with each other. The dorms aren't too expensive, and the school has very reasonable quiet-hour policies.

Academic Rigor

As I have said, the University of Washington is a competitive school. Taking that into account, the classes will be hard, but they are manageable if you know your study-habits and are willing to ask for help if you get confused. Also, be sure that you are studying what you need to be studying; of course the classes will be too hard if you're taking a math class designed for physics majors (and you don't understand math); it is competitive, but not too hard if you take what you're meant to take based off your major.

Tips for prospective students

The University of Washington is a competitive school, so it is what you make of it. For one, try to hit the ground running with your academics- go to office hours if you're confused and choose a tutor off the tutoring list, even if you still think you're doing okay. Don't be too intimidated by the size of the school; it may seem very big at first, but you can make it a small university by getting involved with one of the many clubs and activities, and by going to office hours. Also, everyone gets lost their first week of classes, so don't be too hard on yourself; after about a week, you'll basically know where everything is.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is truly an excellent school with a picturesque campus and dedicated professors. There are literally thousands of classes you can take and hundreds of different types of majors. The University of Washington is extremely diverse and its academic options reflect that.

Aakriti from Des Moines, WA

04/05/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

campus safety is amazing. There are emergency polls in every other corner of the campus. Email alerts notify you of incoming danger ahead of time. Police escorts escort you to your dorm, apartment or vehicle in dark with just a phone call. Safety tips are being emailed frequently to all.

Greek Life

There are sorority and fraternity. Don't know a lot about them because I am not a part of either one.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs and activities going on at the UW. Ethnicity , sports clubs, spirit clubs, dance and music and many more. Becoming a part of one help you become social and understand the campus life even more.

Great for these types of students

Students who are hard workers. Very social. Love studying and making new friends

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

zombies versus humans play act. Some kids become a part of zombies group and some become humans. They tie a band respective to code of their groups. This is being play all over the campus as the zombies attract the humans and humans find a good hide aways.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is very high and financial aid is not helping so much either now a days. I am about to graduate and having such difficulties in paying for my courses. If considering in going to this school, then make sure you apply for scholarships and financial aid ahead of time.

What to do for fun

Join clubs because there are a lot of talented students to work with. Go to the parties, they are fun as well as a way to interact with different people who you don't see everyday in campus.

Food and Dining

Food is great here. The hub, the heart of UW is fully renovated and they have all kinds of food there (indian , Italian , n Mexican etc) cafes are in everything other building. Dorms have their own dining halls and the hours are very convenient.

Dorm Life

UW has convenient housing facilities. Dorm life is there for you to study as well as to be the part of the university.

Academic Rigor

UW is not an easy school. Study super hard should be the goal to get good grades. Maintain the rigor throughout and achieve the best.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard but don't forget to enjoy your time at the campus. Join a club and interact. Make lots of good friends because they will yours for the rest of your life. Do something that the world can see.

In three sentences

UW is a well renowned university. I am fortunate to get into one of the prestigious universities in the world. It is diverse and emphasize on indulging in team work.

Kathleen from Metaline Falls, WA

04/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Clubs and Activities

There are so many different clubs and activities. At the beginning of the year there's a activities fair thing at the HUB where you can see what type of clubs there are. http://depts.washington.edu/sao/rso-directory/

Great for these types of students

You need to be able to study without anyone telling you to. Procrastinators probably won't do well.

Food and Dining

Since I was in Steven's Court I usually bought food at the District Market and then would cook. Food at the District Market is pricey but if you need to spend your food account money it works. Cultivate is a good place to eat if your looking for something nicer, and the food trucks are great. There are restaurants all around the campus, mostly on the ave, which have good food and are good places to hang out with friends.

Dorm Life

I lived in Steven's Court, which are apartments instead of normal dorms. I didn't get the huge social aspect of dorms, but it was quieter which I liked, and I got to cook which saved me money.

Academic Rigor

The classes are harder but at the same time they are more interesting. As long as you remember to study, you should be fine. There are so many places where you can get help, whether it's Mary Gates Hall or from you professor of T.A.

Tips for prospective students

Get good walking shoes, and invest in a good jacket that won't get soaked with some rain.

Michelle from Spokane, WA

04/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Clubs and Activities

Time Lords United is the Doctor Who club and it's a lot of fun. We watch episodes (both new and classic who), table in red square, discuss theories in fireside chats and do some other stuff too. Humans vs Zombies tag is pretty fantastic too.

What to do for fun

Clubs! There are so many, from sports to fandoms to everything else.

Food and Dining

The dorm food isn't all that bad. Occasionally it gets a bit monotonous but that's generally the point where you branch out from eating at the 8 to trying the places at the HUB.

Dorm Life

Dorms can be loud, the north dorms and the new dorms are pretty spacious.

Academic Rigor

You have to study. Do your homework, don't procrastinate. It's manageable as long as you don't put it off and keep a balanced schedule.

Tips for prospective students

Learn the campus so you won't stress yourself out over getting lost or being late. Get involved with clubs. There are tons and there are plenty of great people with similar interests.

In three sentences

The campus is large and gorgeous but not too large. There are a wide variety of classes and majors. Not to mention numerous activities for student involvement.

Garrett from Kapolei, HI

04/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Along with the local Seattle police, the university has its own security system and police force. There are safety lights/buttons all around campus that can be pressed and security will be sent to the location immediately. Although there is a security incident every now and then, you definitely feel safe with the amount of security provided.

Greek Life

It is safe to say that the greek life is a big part of the school. There is a clear division amongst the students, those who are greek and those who aren't. Because of the large number of students in the greek system, there are ALWAYS parties going on. However, a downside to all of the greek lifers is the sense of dominance that they seem to exude.

Clubs and Activities

With 100+ clubs on campus, there is bound to be something that fits your interests. From the typical cultural clubs to clubs like the Beyonce Appreciation Club, students can find others who share their interests. If you can't find a club that's just for you, it's really simple to start your own club!

Great for these types of students

The University of Washington is great for students who are okay with have large classes, who love to meet new people, and who are self-motivated when it comes to learning. Because of the large classes, it can be a little intimidating at first to be in such a large school. However, you're constantly meeting new people and you're bound to meet someone with the same interests as you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At the beginning of freshman year, students are taken to four pillars so that they can touch the columns for good luck through out their college life. After graduation, many of the students come back to the columns to touch them again.

Bang for the buck

For the amount paid for tuition, there could be more benefits to the school. For example, the price of the books in comparison the the amount being paid for tuition is ridiculous. The quality of some of the professors also seems to not match the amount being paid for an education, as some of them seem not to care about the education of their students.

What to do for fun

Because the school is located in Seattle, there are many touristy things to do and see, such as the space needle and pike's market place. If you're from out of town, seeing these places are a must. However, if you're from the area, there are still lots of happenings in and around campus. The HUB has activities such as bowling, video games, pool, and table tennis. The IMA also provides outdoor activities like canoeing.

Food and Dining

The food in the dorms is just like typical college food. However, the infamous Ave makes up for it, providing all types of food from different cultures. Some of the restaurants, like Cafe on the Ave, stay up late and are great for those who get hungry after a late night of studying.

Dorm Life

Many of the dorms are new, having been built in the past couple of years. Living in the dorms is a great way to meet new people who have similar interests as you. It also provides a great way to find people to study with because many of the residents are underclassmen who are taking the same classes as you. Many of the upperclassmen don't live in the dorms and often live off campus.

Academic Rigor

The university presents intellectually stimulating courses that are constantly pushing students to their limits. Part of the competition amongst students is the fact that many of the popular majors are hard to get in because of all the competition.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should focus most of their time and effort on the essay portion of the application. The school seems to take a look at that a lot and even places some students into certain programs based on the essay (like the minority program).

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a large public school in the city and is great for students who love to meet new people. The school is also great for those who want to be challenged academically and who want to explore personal interests. One of the downsides is that sometimes you seem to be just another face in the crowd.

Thang from Seattle, WA

Very safe and secure you can even sign up for email and text notifications from UW police department in case of a chemical meltdown or hazardous spills.

Great for these types of students

Everyone!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Husky Fest where we get together and get free promotions of businesses around campus ie: free food, T-shirts, even plants from groups that are passionate about creating a great environment for everyone to enjoy.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is of course expensive, but you get what you pay for so I think the education at UW is worth it.

What to do for fun

The IMA is a great place to workout and have fun. Also sitting in the grass at The Quad on a sunny day will gives you a magnificent view of architectural surrounding as well as the beautiful nature.

Food and Dining

The food is decent, but I am just really sick of it by now because I had to eat a small range of food throughout a whole year.

Dorm Life

Over all it is decent, the main purpose for living in the dorm for me is to gain access to academic resources and that's exactly what I got.

Academic Rigor

Classes are very challenging! Especially the science and engineering departments.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard and try not to fall behind because it will be VERY difficult to catch up to the rigorous course work.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a beautiful large campus that promotes wide range of diversity and a great education.

Frances from Lynnwood, WA

05/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Greek Life

There are 18 sororities and over 30 fraternities. Greek life is a great fit for social students that like to have a lot of fun, do everything together, and get to know a lot of people. There are always lots of events going on-- philanthropies, exchanges, grab-a-dates, parties, and general hang out time.

Bang for the buck

As a state school, the University of Washington is highly accredited around the world. A degree from UW is highly respected and admired. UW Seattle offers a ton of resources that one can only dream of being able to take advantage of them all. Despite these perks, the campus is so large and there are so many students that it can be really hard to find the assistance one is looking for. Everything is super complicated and getting the information one needs can be a real hassle. At the cost of a state university, a UW degree is worth all the challenges this big school presents.

Food and Dining

The dorms have really nice dining halls with good food. There are lots of options and lots of nice seating. Sororities and fraternities have chefs that cook their meals for them. And the Ave is super close with tons of great restaurants.

Dorm Life

I don't live in a dorm, but I have heard that independence is really important to have. The more you like being by yourself a lot or if you are super outgoing and social, then you will do fine. One of the largest challenges of being in the dorms, though, is that you are bound to get international students who don't really speak English as roommates since there are so many of them.

Academic Rigor

Even easy classes at UW are harder than they should be. As an undergraduate, students tend not to enjoy their first couple years (class-wise) because there are so many prerequisites for all majors. But once students get to their junior and senior years, they are taking classes that interest them because they are all in their majors.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared for challenges other than the ones that are presented to you in the classroom. College is a time of major change and the transition can be much harder than you may expect. Everything about your life is changing all at once- your school, the place you live, who you live with, the level of responsibility you take on, your level of independence, your relationships with the people you know, and so much more. Don't assume that just because you want to move out of your parent's house so badly that you won't get homesick.

In three sentences

The University of Washington, Seattle is a great school! I am challenged every day in my classes and while I work on projects, essays, etc. outside of the classroom. I would rate UW at about an 8.

Jordan

In college, you meet the friends you'll have for the rest of your life. If you're lucky, you might even meet the one.

What to do for fun

I love to take part in many of the events. It helps me keep in touch with people and it gives us a break from the daily grind of studying.

Food and Dining

Food and dining is great in this area. We live next to a strip of restaurants and you can find anything that your taste buds desire.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great if you get along with your roommate. It also allows you access to participate in school events and I highly recommend it.

Academic Rigor

It's all about the professors you take. Always ask around for those who have taken a certain professor before registering for them. It's best to find someone who is more experienced than a new professor.

Tips for prospective students

If you're in love with your major, then taking classes won't seem like a chore. You have to put in a lot of work in order to make it far, but if you really enjoy what you're studying, time will go by quicker.

In three sentences

University of Washington-Seattle Campus is a beautiful campus with many organizations that you can join to help you find your niche. There are always activities going on that you can take part of in order to expand your network and have fun doing it. We may have rain, but the days that the sun is out, the campus and the scenery around us is amazing.

Cara from Arlington, WA

The school is in a city, so crime does happen. Luckily we have our own police force on campus that works very hard to protect us here.

Greek Life

This school has a thriving Greek community, if that's something you're interested in you have so many options here.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs here, there will be no problem finding one that meets your interests.

Great for these types of students

Studious, adventurous, willing to meet a lot of new people in a short period of time.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Jumping in the fountain!

Bang for the buck

It is an expensive school, especially for public school. As I said before, financial aid isn't always easy to come by.

What to do for fun

This school is in Seattle, so there's so much to do. There are lots of restaurants, parks, and the school is right on the water! There's never a boring weekend here.

Food and Dining

There are lots of options for food on campus, all of which offer a wide variety.

Dorm Life

The university is currently in the middle of remodeling and rebuilding all the dorms. They're conveniently located, good size, and always have something going on.

Academic Rigor

The classes are tough, as they should be. If you want to do well here you're going to have to work hard.

Tips for prospective students

Financial Aid can be hard to find, there's a lot of students here and only so much money. But visit the campus, sit in on a class, and see if you feel it would be a good fit for you.

In three sentences

This school has a beautiful campus with a lot of history. The staff is very prepared to teach and more than willing to help you outside of class. There are a number of resources on campus that can assist with your every need.

Hannah from Federal Way, WA

08/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Ave: University Way: the general street where all food and copy stores and thrift stores and tattoo parlors are; students roam the Ave a LOT The Quad: beautiful place on campus with cherry blossoms; if you haven't seen it yet, it's a MUST (you will see it by eventually anyways because some classes are located here)

What to do for fun

Thrifting, eating, hanging out with friends on the Ave and the Quad is what most people do. Or you could bus it to U Village and get some shopping therapy to get away from the studies for awhile.

Food and Dining

The food and dining on campus isn't amazing, but if you go to The Ave (ask students what it is), the food there is amazing. Psst. Go for Thai Toms and WOW Bubble Tea and Yogurtland.

Dorm Life

If you need your personal space, either sign up for the dorms with your own bedrooms, or just live in an apartment. Sometimes, dorms are a bit cramped, and a lot of students either change dorms or move out altogether during the first month. Dorms are a bit pricey but it's a good experience to have.

Academic Rigor

As UW is becoming an all around Top 10 School, its academics are rigorous. It's not just about how well you know the material; it's about how well you know it in comparison to others. Study consistently, don't cram, and seek help from friends, T.A.s, and the professors.

Tips for prospective students

Don't walk around with your head down or look unapproachable. If you're shy and need others to approach you first, they won't unless you look open to talking and socializing. Classes can be overwhelming by size. Stay in contact with your professor. Go to office hours and seek help. He/She may be a big help later on (especially for letters of recommendation). The professors at UW are really funny and easy to talk to.

In three sentences

It has a great campus, friendly professors, and great students. It's a bit large, so you can feel lost at times, but go around campus with the intention of making friends and putting yourself out there. It can be really fun.

Dylan from Renton, WA

There are clubs and activities for everyone, no matter what your interests are.

Food and Dining

The food is very good but sometimes is not very convenient as the places to eat can be far away.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is very nice at the university of Washington. There are many different dorms that accommodate everyone's likes and dislikes. You can request clusters or single rooms depending on your preference.

Academic Rigor

the rigor depends on how much you want to push yourself. you design your own academic life which means its only as hard as you want it to be.

Tips for prospective students

My tips for prospective students is not to be afraid to get out there. It can be intimidating at first but once you find a group that you fit in to the year becomes much easier.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a great place for an education. The campus is a large and diverse society that can cater to anyone's needs. The only downside is that it can be intimidating to new students.

Student from Sammamish, WA

08/20/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Since it is a public campus, anyone can come onto campus. This really isn't a problem though since UW has plenty of campus police, and since it is so large they have their own 911 dispatch if you are on the campus so you can get quicker help. Campus is safe, the only real threat is certain areas after dark which are OFF campus. If you avoid these you will have a great time.

Clubs and Activities

HUGE list of clubs to get involved in. It's easy to start your own, but it's likely the club already exists.

Great for these types of students

Plenty of research opportunities in various projects.

Bang for the buck

UW is considered to be one of the few Public Ivy schools meaning you get the Ivy league type education without the exorbitant fees. Of course, if you wanted to slouch by doing as little as possible, you wouldn't get much out of your experience here. The UW offers an amazing educational opportunity and you can come out learning a lot more than most other schools.

What to do for fun

The entire state of Washington has a beautiful view and the Seattle and its surroundings are no exception. Hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding and much much more to experience or simply explore around the area. Since the campus is in the city, you are within short distance of all that the city has to offer, and you can get there using the great metro bus system the Seattle has (which, by the way, is free for all UW students). College games are great fun and definitely something you don't want to miss.

Food and Dining

There is so much great food just off campus, you can walk there in a matter of minutes. The on-campus food isn't too shabby either with a large variety of local and chain restaurants which will fulfill everyone's appetite.

Dorm Life

Many dorms are being renovated and the new ones are very nice. Different dorms are close to different parts of the campus, and you can choose the one which suits you best. Some of the older dorms aren't the best but the new ones are amazing.

Academic Rigor

UW is ranked as high as 16 among all the colleges around the world. You will get top notch education and you will get as much out of the classes here as you put in.

Tips for prospective students

The UW is large so be prepared to be overwhelmed. However, this also means there are numerous opportunities to get involved in various clubs and activities and all kinds of people to meet. There's really a place for everyone.

In three sentences

The University of Washington campus is a sprawling campus and every square inch of it is majestic. From beautiful trees (100s of different kinds) to gorgeous, historic architecture with the most up to date interior, the UW campus has it all. There is tons of access to food, transportation and entertainment all within a short walk.

Julian from Seattle, WA

The school offers tons of clubs for any students to join, including focus groups with specific topics.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students that thrive in a culturally diverse student population.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Many things happen at the Red Square with the Barnett Newman sculpture. Watch for different art shows being held at the art school on campus.

Bang for the buck

Each class has a course fee, which is normally used towards technology fees and supplies. If you're a resident, enjoy the reduced tuition compared to out-of-state prices. Parking is a bit expensive but if you plan well you won't need it as there are many parking lots around the campus (or public transportation). Students also enjoy many discounts exclusively for University of Washington students.

What to do for fun

The University of Washington offers the Burke Museum and the Henry Art Gallery for your art and historical needs. As for nightlife, there are plenty of bars and theaters around. If you feel like shopping, look around the U-District for its many stores ranging from Apple to Pottery Barn.

Food and Dining

Due to the diverse culture here at the University of Washington, you can find many types of restaurants. Many of the restaurants also offer vegetarian/vegan meals to better cater to the crowd here. Keep in mind this school also offers many cafes and food options on campus as well.

Dorm Life

There is quite the diverse crowd here at the University of Washington. The diversity here is proof of a rich student culture of international standards. The dorms around the campus offer convenience in location and also other businesses like in the U-District. Restaurants, art supply stores, bookstores, and other businesses are plentiful. The public transportation is great too!

Academic Rigor

Each classes offer a set of goals for each prospective students. They cover different perspectives so the students can get a well-rounded education based on the subject of the class. Be prepared to set aside at least 15 hours per week for homework, each class.

Tips for prospective students

A great tip for prospective students would be to be prepared to get to know the layout of the campus, as it is large. Knowing the proper bus routes and parking lots will make your arrival to classes easier. Also, be sure to learn about the resources the school has to offer, such as the multiple libraries or to rent costly equipment for free.

In three sentences

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus is a highly recognized acamdemic institution of the highest standards. The school campus is vast with various celebrated architectural designs and art. I would rate this university 10 out of 10 for its beauty, academic mission, and diverse student culture.

from Bellevue, WA

09/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

For fun on campus students can go to the Henry Art Gallery for poetry, art, and music. Also students can rent a canoe for an affordable price near campus. For a scenic walk near U-DUB students can go to Gasworks Parks which overlooks Lake Union and the Burke Gilman trail.

Food and Dining

Since the UW is inside the city its has great food all around. Food from all the world could be found on campus and on the ave.

Dorm Life

I am a commuter so don't know much about dorm except from friends who really liked living on campus.

Academic Rigor

The courses are rigorous and they move fast for the quarter system. UW is ranked 16th of top public schools and it sure feels like it when students are in class.

Tips for prospective students

1. Enjoy and explore the large campus 2. Visit an adviser regularly if you are undecided on a major 3. Make sure to take part in the various research that is happening all around campus

In three sentences

Students that like big and vibrant campuses, then UW Seattle is the right place for them. Big classes for many of the intro classes and small collective classrooms as students get into their majors. Going to UW Seattle you will become part of a community.

Jacob from Kelso, WA

Chill with your newfound friends, chill in your dorm, walk and take it all in, explore Seattle or play some sort of recreational sport in the fields!

Food and Dining

The food is delicious. There's a good variety for food but we need a permanent Mexican cuisine shop. Taco Tuesdays is great but it'd be better we had one everyday!

Dorm Life

McCarty 4S is where it's at! We have so much fun together! If you're going to live your first year away from home, live in a dorm and choose First Year Experience. You'll make the best decision of your life if you do!

Academic Rigor

Honestly, I've studied more during my AP classes. Here it's more do the things that the teacher tells you. If you follow the syllabus, you're going to be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Just come here. It's really quite the experience. Remember to try becoming friends with your roommates and floormates. They want to make friends too! Don't forget to sign up for First Year Experience and none of the other crap! It might be overwhelming if you think about it so just don't! Just live through it day to day!

In three sentences

The campus is a beautiful place to live and learn. Walking to class is just breathtaking and spending time with other students is great way to exchange ideas and have fun. This is the best time of my life!

Jamela from Kent, WA

There are great restaurants up The Ave. There is a variety of cafes around the campus. The food is a bit pricey.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is super fun. You meet a lot of new people, learn new things, and the dorm supervisors always have activities available if one has nothing to do that day.

Academic Rigor

It varies on the classes you take. Currently I am majoring in marketing and the prerequisites for the business major are difficult.

Tips for prospective students

1. Make sure you know how to study properly 2. Do not procrastinate on any of your work if you are admitted. 3. COMMUNICATE. Communicating with professors and other students is a key to succeeding at the University of Washington.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a great school. There is a variety of different clubs and activities to do everyday on campus.The beautiful campus and friendly atmosphere allows a person to feel comfortable anywhere they are.

Alka from Seattle, WA

11/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

If you walk around 15, 45th, or Greek Row at night with your smartphone out you may get mugged. However, it's pretty rare considering the amount of people that do this and don't have any trouble ever. UWPD is your friend. They do not care if you had a beer and you are underage, they care about making sure you are safe! There are usually cops everywhere around night time to make sure any trouble makers (usually non-UW students) aren't coming in to threaten their kids. After 8p.m. you can get a ride to your dorm/apt/whathaveyou by Husky Night Ride. When you come to the school, one of the first things they do is inform you how to be safe. I've never had any issues. UWPD is here to prevent anything bad from happening, but should it happen they will get on it and neutralize the situation as fast as possible. UW really takes care of safety.

Greek Life

Not a Greek, but most of my Greek friends really like their life as a Greek. The only thing to be conscience of is that it is a lifestyle, so it will take over most everything.

Clubs and Activities

The amount of clubs at this school is too damn high! In all seriousness, there's like no chance that you wouldn't be able to find a club you would be interested in. Most every club loves getting new members and they are all pretty welcoming. As for activities, the UW throws some pretty fun shindigs. I've attended concerts for Macklemore, Allen Stone, and Pickwick for free. T-pain and Chingy have also had concerts. There's also lots of cool cultural events. I've attended some pretty great Powwowws.

Great for these types of students

I'm just going to list traits you need to have to succeed, if this doesn't sound like you, then UW is probably not the best fit. Self-motivated Driven Good at time management You actually want to go to college

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

1. Humans VS Zombies - First week of the quarter you sign up for this game. Then all hell breaks loose as zombies will hunt humans between classes, after dinner. Basically whenever. Humans can hide in school buildings and dorms/apartments, as well as shoot zombies with a nerf gun to subvert being eaten. 2. The Cops at Frat parties are normal, don't freak out - UW realizes there students will party and have fun. They're not here to take down the 10,000 students they have that drink underage. Be responsible with your partying, and if you're under 21 don't be caught holding an alcoholic beverage when the cops come in. Further more, if someone has alcohol poisoning the school will help get them healthy again no questions asked. 3. Weed is not a big deal.. sort of - I've never tested this theory, but if UWPD catches you smoking pot apparently all they do is ask you to give up what you have. I heard this before the laws changed over to make Pot legal. 4. Beauty - This campus is seriously one of the best to look at. Mountain surrounding you, we're on the water, the architecture is astounding. Amazing!

Bang for the buck

With the ~$4000 (in-state tuition) you get unlimited public transport around the city, you obviously get college credit, and you get a gym membership (the IMA is probably the best gym in the state). The school also offers this thing called Husky Ride where every 20 minutes from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. a UW van drives around campus and will pick up students to drop them off in front of their front door (as long as you live within a mile of campus). Even if you live a little farther, they'll still take you as close as they can typically. This is ideal not only for safety, but for the avoiding the cold. There's free counseling services on campus as well if you ever feel really bogged down by life, the impenetrable clouds in the city, or a bad breakup. Over all, it's cheaper than a lot of schools and UW offers a lot of resources to take care of their students. You just have to educate yourself about these resources and take advantage of them.

What to do for fun

The Ave has lots of Bars and good places to go eat. The HUB has bowling, and arcade stuff, as well as more places to eat. You can go explore Seattle.

Food and Dining

On campus is acceptable, but I've grown weary of it over time. However the Ave has some of the best of every type of cuisine in Seattle.

Dorm Life

Depends on who your dorm mates are, but many people manage to find some friends within their dorm.

Academic Rigor

Mainly dependent on your major. Science people ready to eat, breathe, live science. Everyone else, not so bad.

Tips for prospective students

I cannot say this enough, go to class. Unless you love studying 3x more than necessary.

In three sentences

This University is like a choose your own ending story. You could make lots of friends, have great relationships with your professors, and get phenomenal grades. Or you could barely meet anyone, never go to class and really have your professors not even know that you exist. It is entirely contingent upon how much effort you put in.

David from Coeur D Alene, ID

11/06/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

We have a large police force dedicated to the university with programs such as night walk to help people get home safely at night. There are safety phones located all around campus and it is well lit at night.

Greek Life

Can't say. I don't live on Greek row. But I hear rumors that it is pretty fun and exciting.

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds of clubs from squirrel club to the yacht club. Athletics are obviously important as well. There is an activity for everyone.

Great for these types of students

Great for students who are here to study but want to have a good time while doing it.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Red Square and the Quad are both beautiful places to meet up with friends and just hang out. The Ave is a great place for shops and food and it is right next to campus. There is also many parks along the waterfront to go hang out.

Bang for the buck

The school and its prestige are great, however, it is very expensive. Housing is expensive as it is in Seattle. Nonetheless, the school has every resource imaginable to help with your studies. I never feel like I can't get help and the education is top tier.

What to do for fun

Everyone loves football games! There is also many scenic and interesting areas to go exploring. Because the campus is so big, there is always one event or another going on. And if you want to party sometimes, UW has a Greek row too.

Food and Dining

There is somewhere to eat within a hundred feet no matter where you are on campus. The dining card is accepted everywhere and there is a great variety of places to eat. Subway, Pagliacci Pizza, sit-down restaurants on campus, great street food, and more.

Dorm Life

The only problem I have with the dorms is that there is a little bit of a walk to class. However, the dorms are all great and each have awesome amenities. Mine has a restaurant and the dorm across the street has a market. There is food everywhere and the internet is super FAST!

Academic Rigor

I think that the academic stress is just right. Being on a quarter system, you can concentrate more on fewer classes at a time. I don't feel overwhelmed with too many classes at once and the teachers are all great.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early, be prepared for cold weather, and WEAR YOUR PURPLE!

In three sentences

The University of Washington is great for its students, location, and academics. I love that it is in Seattle; there is some much to do. The teachers have been amazing thus far and school is enjoyable here.

I visited the campus on W-Day, and it was just beautiful! We took a tour, and the people seemed really great and the area seems perfect for someone looking to learn on and off the campus and still have fun.

Ruben from KENT, WA

12/24/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

Walk along the ave or through The Village. Bowl or play pool at the hub. Visit downtown Seattle, Pikes Place Market, and the Space Needle. Walk around Gassworks Park, and Green Lake park. Visit the Cinemas of downtown Seattle. Watch concert from the various musicians who stop through Seattle and the up and coming musicians that are starting their careers in Seattle. Watch the Huskies dominate football, soccer, and volleyball games and cross country matches. Take advantage of the Dawg Daze events.

Food and Dining

The dining account is very convenient, but slightly overpriced.

Dorm Life

If you want to live nearer to the Ave, with all of its restaurants and shops, and live in the typical room with a nice bathroom and just one roommate choose a dorm on West campus. If you are interested in living nearer to your classes, and the athletic department as well as living in the fun cluster style dorm rooms, choose McMahon.

Academic Rigor

If you take all hard classes during a quarter, the load might be unbearable, but if you take a healthy balance of fun classes, and serious classes each quarter, it would be bearable and you'll be left with plenty of free time.

Tips for prospective students

Start the application early, and write many drafts of each of your essays. Once accepted, make sure to take a healthy balance of classes. I advise to take enjoyable classes along with classes geared towards your major each quarter.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a fantastic university. The education system is top notch, and well structured towards the success of each of its students. Its location near downtown Seattle provides it with excellent transportation and accessibility to shopping areas, fun hangouts, and restaurants.

Amanda from Seattle, WA

01/06/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There are lots of ways that the University works to keep students safe, such as the Night Ride and designated people to help you walk at night, if you ask. They also send out emails to students to warn them of any criminal activity that happened usually within the first 24 hours of it being reported.

Greek Life

There is a big Greek system at the UW, though it isn't stifling. On Mondays you can see groups of fraternity brothers walking in formal wear from class to class. It seems to be a good supportive system for students.

Clubs and Activities

Whether you are part of the collegiate teams or you are a bit more restful, there are plenty of opportunities for people to get involved in things outside of academics. At the IMA alone there are dozens of intramural sports and classes you can sign up for. There are also plenty of clubs to join, anything from swing dancing to film, from what I've seen.

Great for these types of students

UW is great for students that enjoy the big city life and don't mind being lost in a crowd at times. Though it may be a bit overwhelming at times, if you are good at reaching out and making friends then UW is an excellent choice.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At the end of your freshman orientation session you touch pillars that were from the original University of Washington building, and you touch them again after you graduate.

What to do for fun

Hopping on a bus with friends and exploring Ballard or different parts of Seattle is always fun! Other options are taking sports classes at the IMA or even joining a club of your interest. And there is always the option of spending a night in and having movie/ show marathons with free HBO Go and Philo.

Food and Dining

There are places to eat for practically any diet. The eateries beneath and near the housing could be fairly bland and boring at times, there is a wide variety on the Ave.

Dorm Life

McMahon was the dorm I was assigned to and I was pleasantly surprised with the cluster setup. The people I roomed with were awesome, they're some of my best friends.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the class I feel like I'm being challenged well, especially in the math and sciences.

Tips for prospective students

Study, study, study! Go to available areas such as CLUE, designated study centers, or the IC if you apply. I lived in McMahon my freshman year, and being the only student from my school to go to the UW I really appreciated being forced to have the cluster mates, so I suggest trying for McMahon if you're a lonely freshman looking for cheaper housing. Finally, attend the events put on by the school, because those were where some of my best memories were made.

In three sentences

Though the college is big, it's easy to make it manageable. Try to find friends, whether it's in classes, mutual interest areas, or just ran into them. Some classes are harder than others, but going to study centers can really help.

Maddy from Bothell, WA

01/10/2014

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

I feel safe at UW. Sometimes the campus alert emails seem a little superfluous. One time I got an email saying that a student had a $20 and six-pack of Dr. Pepper stolen from them on the street! Scrupulous attention to matters such as petty theft make me feel safe about the big crimes too.

What to do for fun

For fun students play frisbee in the quad, watch movies, paint, draw, exercise, etc. Downtown Seattle is easily to get to, and that provides a whole wealth of fun too!

Food and Dining

I look forward to eating the great food that UW offers, but I can't say much about it now because I don't go there yet.

Dorm Life

I LOVE that all the dorms are named after different species of trees. The new dorms are beautiful, even the small details such as lighting in the lobby are thoughtfully designed. I plan to stay in the dorms for at least two years, but maybe more. The quiet dorms that are offered to upper classmen have a definite Harry Potter feel to them, so cool!

Academic Rigor

My understanding is that UW is an academically fast school, and that rigor differs by major. In the computer science and engineering field, the students are extremely competitive to have the highest grades, and perfect test scores. Of course, there is a high quality of education across the board, and students can add to that based on their level of tenacity.

Tips for prospective students

Try to hone your interests before attending the school, that way you'll benefit from what you truly enjoy!

In three sentences

This University is a bright star in the galaxy of Northwestern colleges. Oppurtunites are a plently for those willing to work. The large campus environment feels small enough to be at ease, but large enough to meet new people on a daily basis.

Melissa from Seattle, WA

There are countless clubs offered at this school, including many focused in diversity.

Great for these types of students

Academically-driven, rain-loving, and international individuals.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs. Zombies is a great decompression as students walk around on campus seeing the battle ensue...

Bang for the buck

UW is very expensive, however I have found that the academic opportunities here are extremely valuable.

What to do for fun

It's Seattle! If you like academics, living on campus is perfect to head to one of the several amazing and beautiful libraries on campus, find quiet places to study or hang out with the many new people you will meet, or find clubs to join. And of course, it is the birthplace of Starbucks!

Food and Dining

As with any college, the options are expensive. These are the biggest downsides to the options at the UW. However, there are positives. Don't expect access to fast food. The nice thing about Seattle is that there are plenty of international and vegetarian options. As a vegetarian and eco-focused student, I have been continuously impressed by the emphasis placed on sustainable and healthier options.

Dorm Life

I have had an amazing, unforgettable experience here living in the dorms for my first year. The dorms are clean, modern, and welcoming, and my experience has influenced me to apply as a Resident Adviser for next year. I would definitely recommend living on the dorms here at UW.

Academic Rigor

The most important factor in my decision to attend the University of Washington was the academic rigor I knew I would have access to. I thrive on education, and without rigor I would not be getting what I paid for. The University of Washington offers so many types of challenging options, and along with the outstanding faculty, the potential an academically-driven student can find here at the school is just enough (if not more) than the opportunities found at an Ivy League School.

Tips for prospective students

Don't assume you can enroll in advanced classes if you have experience in AP or IB classes in high school. This was my most regretful mistake during my first quarter and while I learned a great deal through the advanced courses, my grades did not show it. A 4.0 in college isn't nearly as easy as a 4.0 in high school. Don't risk your grades for skipping what you might consider easier courses, because they will likely require more work than your AP or IB courses.

In three sentences

As a rain-loving, STEM-passionate student, the University of Washington has proven to be my perfect place. I can't imagine anything better than living 5 minutes away from classes, and the nearest Starbucks (other than help in tuition). If you are the type that can find happiness even in the 365-day wet season at the UW, this is the perfect place to prepare for you role in the future.

Michalla from Puyallup, WA

01/19/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

The Ave is one of the main streets close to the university and it is there that you can find many restaurants and shops that are relatively inexpensive. Some of these restaurants and shops will give students a discount if they show their student ID. Since the bus system is so efficient and since students can ride the bus for free you can easily take a bus to Downtown Seattle to indulge in a larger variety of shopping options. Also, if you are interested in water sports you may enjoy kayaking on Lake Union.

Food and Dining

The food on campus is delicious and there are many options to choose from. You can find Starbucks stands in several buildings around campus as well as other cafes. Also, you can load money onto your Husky Card in advance and use this card when paying for food. The HUB is central building on campus where you can find amazing pizza, hamburgers, Indian food, Sandwiches, and a convenience store.

Dorm Life

The dorms on campus are very efficient. The Mercer Court dorms are fairly new and they can be compared to apartments. Within the Mercer Court dorms you can find seating areas on the roof as well as a cafe called The Husky Grind.

Academic Rigor

The coursework in many of the programs can be very difficult, but there are tutors to assist.

Tips for prospective students

Due to the size of the university I recommend that all prospective students become very familiar with the campus before class begins. Also, all students, staff, and faculty are given a transit pass that allows you to ride most public transportation for free, so take advantage of this perk.

In three sentences

The campus is stunning and there is a great amount of pride among the students. There are many programs to choose from ranging from the arts to the sciences. Overall, I believe that the University of Washington is one of the best research universities in America and there are many research opportunities for students as well.

Faustina from Kent, WA

01/28/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The University of Washington has its own police force, and they are all over campus for the student's need. Theft is a very frequent occurrence at UW, so students can register their belongings with UWPD in case they are lost or stolen. Also, they have programs called nightride and nightwalk where students can have a police officer walk or drive them to their destination late at night for safety. The police officers are really nice and easy to get along with.

Greek Life

The University of Washington has a very large Greek system, with over 30 fraternities and 18 sororities. Every single person I know in the Greek system loves Greek life. People in the Greek system are typically very outgoing and each house holds different social gatherings for people to get to know each other.

Food and Dining

There are many places to eat all over campus. Almost all of the libraries are equipped with cafes, there are food trucks serving various types of food on Red Square, and most of the dorms have some sort of a restaurant or dining hall. The Husky Union Building offers multiple restaurants and food chains to serve food at. There is also a District Market located on west campus that sells local produce and groceries to the students. All of the food, in my opinion tastes good and there are tons of different options available for what to eat. The only bad thing is that the food is very expensive.

Dorm Life

There are two sets of dorms on campus. One set is on west campus, and the other is on north campus. There are pros and cons to both. The west campus dorms are much newer, the rooms have private bathrooms, there are study areas and lounges on every floor, there are kitchens in certain buildings, and the rooms are very large. However, they are expensive, the buildings are actually about a five minute walk away from campus, and . The north campus dorms are about a minute walk away from campus, they are close to the Greek houses, they are less expensive, and they too have study areas and lounges. However, the rooms are smaller, the floors have communal bathrooms, and the rooms are noticeably older. Each dorm has Resident Advisers that are there to assist students, provide and conduct activities, and to maintain order.

Academic Rigor

The rigor at the University of Washington is completely up to what classes you decide to take, and what you are planning on majoring in. If a student is taking three science or math courses in one quarter he/she will experience much more rigor than an individual who is taking one or two. Every major that is available at UW will demonstrate some sort of rigor, but the difference is when that rigor will be experienced. For example, most of the rigor in some majors will be experienced in an individual's sophomore year, while with other majors it will be experienced during the junior or senior year.

Tips for prospective students

While going to this school, make sure to get involved somehow. Whether it be a club, a team, a study group, a sorority or fraternity, make sure you can identify yourself with some sort of a group. I failed to do this during my first quarter at this school, and I felt completely alone. Only when I started to get involved was when I didn't feel alone, and college became fun. At a school as large as the University of Washington, it can feel like you're absolutely lost. The only way to make the school seem smaller is to meet other people and form your own circle of people to surround yourself with.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a very diverse, positive, and urban school. However, the student population is large and it is difficult to receive any sort of help on campus. There are many resources available, but the school's large size makes it difficult to properly use them and to accomplish personal goals.

Elizabeth from Edmonds, WA

02/05/2014

Reviewer is A past student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Honestly, UW does not have a very safe campus. There are police notifications of people getting mugged multiple times a week. My sorority also got broken into 3 times, along with other sororities (and some houses I know of). But, this can be avoided by walking in populated areas, staying inside during the dark (or getting the campus security officers to drive you around), and ensuring that your house is secure.

Greek Life

The greek life is active, but it can be really nasty. For awhile there was a greek-gossip website where people in the greek system would write really nasty gossip against each other, but it got shut down. Besides that, frats and sororities have a lot of activities and can be a good place to make friends. From my judgment, you're probably better off in the dorms as you can make just as many friends and you don't have to go to all the mandatory meetings and events.

Clubs and Activities

UW has a million clubs and great ways to get involved. There are a lot of sports teams and an incredible gym thats free to students.

Great for these types of students

Hard workers, people interested in doing independent research, people who like the big campus feel with greek life, dorm life, football, all kinds of sports, etc

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

For some reason, students get together and start big fires on the street by burning couches and other furniture, while chanting one more couch! one more couch! Although it sounds dangerous, it is usually pretty controlled and the police ensure it doesn't get too crazy.x

Bang for the buck

Obviously, tuition is probably too expensive, and is increasing. But, there seem to be great job prospects and prospects for graduate school as well.

What to do for fun

On the ave, there are some really cheap and fun bars, karaoke places, museums and theaters. UW also has a lot of fun campus-hosted events with activities and free food.

The dorms aren't that nice, but living in an off campus apartment is cheaper and basically the same. Both are great ways to make friends easily.

Academic Rigor

I found the classes pretty difficult but not unmanageable. If you take advantage of teacher's office hours they can really help you out. It is generally a really well-regarded university.

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of quiz sections and teacher's office hours. Also, living in an apartment off-campus is a great option. The area is really not that safe after dark though, so don't carry your computer around and night and don't go walking around at night without a group.

In three sentences

The University of Washington was great for my majors (philosophy and art). The teachers were extremely well informed, there was lots of extra-curricular help, the classes were small, and my teachers were extremely helpful in putting together my grad school application. The campus is also beautiful.

Holly from Seattle, WA

02/18/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

We're in the middle of a big city, so that does mean that safety is a little lower than it could be in a smaller town. Make sure you're not walking out alone at night too late, yeah? We do have a good alert system though and a very active police community on campus (good active, not overbearing active). We've got an e-mail and a text alert system that's consistently being revamped to up safety, frequent patrols from officers after it gets dark, and a night ride system that will shuttle you home from campus if you're out late.

Great for these types of students

Students who like a lot of options and having control over their education. If you like things laid out for you in a very pre-planned path, or like someone to tell you what to do and when (particularly professors) this isn't going to be a school for you. You've got to be comfortable asking for help and have a bit of agency to do well here. Also, students who like a lot of options. If you're still trying to decide your major and you have a lot of interests you want to explore, this might be a good place for you. We have an incredible amount of majors you can choose from. And anyone who's looking for a bustling community- we're near the city, there are quite a few parties, and things can be kind of loud here sometimes. If you like a lot of things going on, this could really be the place for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have this game called Humans Versus Zombies that's kind of a tradition. It's a giant game of tag that students can sign up to play- the people playing it wear an orange bandanna either on their arm (if they're human) or on their head (if they're a zombie). Most people start out human and there are one or two zombies to start it off. The goal of the game for the humans is to stay human- if they get tagged by a zombie they turn into one, but they can stop zombies by shooting them with a nerf gun or hitting them with a balled up sock. There are a few extra missions humans have to go through, and if they're alive at the end of the week that the game's played, they win. HvZ is actually the second biggest student organization on campus other than the Chinese Student Organization, so it's a pretty big thing. For people who aren't playing, it's also kind of great watching people sprinting across red square being chased by hoards of people.

Bang for the buck

It's a great school. The education you walk away with is diverse and complex, and completely worth what you pay for it. The options the school provides for activities and disciplines, the facilities and spaces we're provided access too, the services, the libraries- the UW offers a lot that helps you create a personalized education experience that suits you.

What to do for fun

We're pretty close to the city and the buses can take you just about anywhere, so there are a lot of options for entertainment. We're really close to the water so there are kayak rentals near campus that are pretty cheap. There's a lot of clubs and concert halls downtown, and a lot of options for theatre, so going out for a show or a fun night is pretty easy to do. Not as many crazy things super close to campus- we've got some theaters, some fun parks, quite a few shopping options, and of course a lot of hang out locations at the nearby restaurants and coffee shops. Also we have a lot of sporting events to go to, so if you're looking for entertainment down that alley there's always something to see. There are also a ton of student organizations on campus that you can get involved with, and they tend to do plenty of fun stuff if that strikes your fancy as well.

Food and Dining

On campus dining sucks. Avoid it at all costs- particularly if you have dietary restrictions. As a vegetarian, living in the dorms and subsequently eating the food provided was pretty difficult. Off campus food is pretty great- there's a very wide selection that's very close to campus. A lot of great Thai food, pho, sandwiches, and coffee. We do coffee right.

Dorm Life

It's good the first year, even though it's insanely expensive, and a really good way to get to make smaller communities in a larger space. The dorms themselves are pretty nice now- we've done a ton of renovation in the last couple years so everything's getting updated (and most of the dorms have been torn down and rebuilt), which makes for some pretty fancy rooms. If you're looking for the nicer ones though, avoid North Campus for now, because those are still pretty run down. They are really close to campus though, which is awesome, and all said aren't a bad option for the first year or two.

Academic Rigor

A lot of the intensity depends on the classes you take, but the UW tends to hold a standard of excellence. We're not ivy league by any means, but the course work does have its intensities. Our classes are intellectually engaging and very stimulating, often with a good deal of outside work attached (particularly once you hit the upper levels). But the work that you're asked to do here isn't work for work's sake- the things I've learned in my classes are entirely centered around gaining a stable base of education that will aid me in my future endeavors.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be threatened by how big it is- within your first year you'll find small communities within the larger one that make things seem a lot smaller. Be ready for it to be harder to get into some of the programs- if you're looking to coast by here, you're going to have more limited options. Take advantage of the campus! We have a lot of great study spaces, fourteen libraries, and some pretty nice landscapes outdoors when it stops raining long enough to enjoy them. The area around campus also has a ton of fun restaurants and coffee shops.

In three sentences

UW is an expansive campus that offers an extremely wide range of people, disciplines, and opportunities in a way that many smaller universities can not. Its scientific programs are its primary wheelhouse, but there are many programs within our community that provide competitive and high level education beyond the sciences. Attending this school provides one with a thriving community, a vibrant social experience, and an incredibly valuable education.

Stephanie from Federal Way, WA

02/21/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The campus safety is held together by the University Police Force. It is wise to walk in pairs and remain aware at all times, and just use plain common sense whether on or off campus. This is the norm in all society, so it is no different than living anywhere else in the United States.

Greek Life

I plan to attend RUSH this fall to join a sorority, The Greek System is large and the choice in houses (fraternities or sororities) is a wide range. The sorority girls I have met are extremely nice and get along so well. I have also studied at a few sororities, and also stayed the night. This is a fantastic option to create friends for life and know there is always someone around to spend time with at all hours of the day or night. They form a tight bond that is super cool!

Clubs and Activities

UW offers hundreds of choices as far as clubs, and activities. A student does not need to look far to find an area of interest. Hobbies can be continued at this school and along with the cultural, musical, and sporting choices, it is easy to be keep busy and also stay entertained at all times.

Great for these types of students

A dedicated and willing to learn individual can succeed at this university. One must be organized and focused on studying to succeed. The classes are highly challenging and very competitive, but with through the use of study groups, utilizing office hours that Professors and TAâ??s provide, one can thrive here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Drumheller Fountain with majestic Mt. Rainier in the background, the cherry blossoms blooming in the spring, Red Square, Suzallo Library, and the HUB are all places to hang out with friends. These locations exhibit the beauty of this campus and caught my attention the first time I visited the University of Washington.

Bang for the buck

The value of attending this university is outstanding. The prestigious University Medical Center, and all the research grants and access to such funds, provide students with unique experiences. The teaching staff are loyal and dedicated to their specialty and profession. This combination provides students with the highest quality education without attending an Ivy league school.

What to do for fun

The IMA (UW Fitness Facility) offers recreation for all sports to students and many dorms also have fitness rooms. The outdoor choices at UW are various, such as biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming, long boarding, water skiing, etc. fit the needs of all. The close proximity o downtown Seattle is a short bus ride for students to visit the Seattle Waterfront, Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Experience Music Project (EMP) along with the multitude of restaurants and clubs, provide numerous opportunities to have some fun!

Food and Dining

The food available is fresh and healthy. The Student Union Building (HUB) or By George in the basement of the Odegaard Library offers a lot of choices, along with quick access to the Ave. and the many restaurant choices there allow all students the opportunity to find whatever they like to eat or drink each day. The dorms also offer awesome food choices each day and stay open pretty late at night, too.

Dorm Life

As a freshman, I have already had the opportunity to live in a new and modern dorm and also one that has a lot of history, The friends made will be lifelong and the study rooms available in all the dorms add to the convenience of this choice of living on campus.

Academic Rigor

While this world renowned learning institution embraces rigorous curriculums, it is a university that is well worth the price of tuition. The opportunities to choose a major that exhibits your own passion, allows individuals to have the chance to learn a multitude of applicable career information, is an exciting way to spend 4 years of your college life. This school prepares you for a successful future.

Tips for prospective students

If you visit the University of Washington and walk around the campus, you will fall in love with this area. The Husky Football Stadium resides next to Lake Washington and it is a beautiful setting. The architecture of the buildings will blow your mind and the laid back atmosphere is perfect for the academic challenges this university offers for students.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is located in a beautiful area, with a diverse population, offering a multitude of majors, clubs, sports, and activities for all students, while being a world renowned learning institution that creates opportunities for successful careers. There are numerous opportunities because of the vast range of majors. The professors and teaching assistants care about students and want to see them succeed.

Aurora from Fall City, WA

02/24/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

They send out notifications to students if there is an incident report from the police if it's on or near campus. They have a car you can call to give you a ride on campus to a nearby place and they have a number you can call if you need to be escorted at night.

Greek Life

I'm not part of greek life, so i can't tell you much about it.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many things to do on campus, lots of sports, and there is a club or two for everything! humans vs zombies is pretty popular here.

Great for these types of students

Any student would fit in at UW, it's super diverse here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Red square is the heart of campus and gets slippery when the bricks are wet so be careful walking in red square.

What to do for fun

They have lots to do, you can go to the IMA for rock climbing, indoor racquet sports, great workout center. Or you can play pooling, go bowling, go kayaking, rowing, biking, soccer, volleyball, this place has anything you can imagine.

Food and Dining

There is a decent selection of all kinds of food all over campus, the HUB just opened a new food court and the food isn't great quality but it's diverse in choices.

Academic Rigor

Almost all the classes i have taken in my degree have been super hard. The general education classes were super easy though. When going into UW just think about what you want to do before you jump into your degree classes because it can really be difficult. Just pace yourself, and don't jump right it. Though it is rigorous it's definitely worth getting a degree, I myself am almost there.

Tips for prospective students

Don't give up if you aren't accepted the first time. I have some friends that had the same issue but they just tried again the following year and got in. The thing you really need is to have community service or extracurricular activities that make you stand out from the rest. I had over 200 hours of community service from three years of high school alone and i think that really helped set me apart from most applicants.

In three sentences

UW has an extremely beautiful campus with a prestige-esk feel when going through all the buildings.Though the classes can be rigorous the education is so worth it. They have programs I have never heard of at most colleges in Washington.

UW Student

The ave has many bars (21+) for those who are over 21. If you are under 21, there are Karaoke places, cafes, and the IMA!

Food and Dining

The dorm/on campus food options are pretty limited, however, UW is right next to the ave! Also, there are many restaurants in Wallingford and Freemont, which are only a bus ride away if you don't have a car.

Dorm Life

The dorms on campus are nice! The West campus dorms are very new and eco-friendly. If you are looking for a cheaper option, the North Campus dorms are generally a bit cheaper! Dorms are a great option for first or second year students as you will meet many people.

Academic Rigor

UW classes can be extremely competitive, especially if you are taking an introductory series! Don't let the competition deter you from your final goal and make sure to always stay on top of your work. It is very easy to fall behind.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to buy your books early, before the beginning of the quarter otherwise they can get very pricey! Try to get involved in a few clubs during your first couple of years on campus and then gain leadership in those same clubs while you are an upperclassman. Dont underestimate the power of office hours and the ability to talk to your professor one-on-one!

In three sentences

The University of Washington's campus is beautiful. There is so much diversity on campus, from the students and the majors to the student organizations. My favorite part about UW is the beautiful buildings and fountain.

Nicole from Seattle, WA

03/08/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

I like to go downtown to the Seattle Aquarium or the Seattle Art Museum. Sometimes I look at the shops on the ave such as Redlight or Urban Outfitters. There are also several movie theaters and music venues nearby. It is truly in a great location for fun activities.

Food and Dining

The food is generally the same in every building including sushi, pastries, sandwiches, salads, etc. For packaged food, it is amazing! However, I prefer freshly made food, which you can find less than a block away on the ave.

Dorm Life

I have never lived in a dorm, though I have friends that have. Depending on which dorm you live in, you will experience very different encounters. If you plan on living in one of the newer dorms, the dorm life is fantastic. Either way, it is a way to meet new friends that you share common interests with.

Academic Rigor

University of Washington is not known for its easiness. However, it is known for its dedication to medical research, as well the diversity in majors. Remember, the amount of work you put in will relate to your results.

Tips for prospective students

Plan to reach outside your comfort zone by joining several new clubs; there are hundreds! Though you must aim to keep your grade point average high, UW wants well-rounded, community-service oriented, and active students representing their institution. When making connections with peers or professors, remember to reach out, and not up; meaning make personal connections with anyone you can.

In three sentences

University of Washington holds an endless amount of opportunities, whether it may be research or student leadership. Thus far, I have engaged in undergraduate research, positions in political clubs, and several philanthropic events. This university strives to better each individual, both academically and personally.

Jonathan from Portland, OR

03/24/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

Downtown seattle is within a 30 minute bus ride, and there are lots of things to do downtown. In terms of within University District, there are karaoke locations that are fun, and scenic areas, if the locations are known.

Food and Dining

There is a variety of food available on campus, and even more variety on University Ave. Whether Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Italian, Hawaiian, or American cuisine, it is available. Food is affordable and proportionate to the serving sizes.

Dorm Life

The dorms are kept organized by the custodial staff on a daily basis. Quiet hours are maintained from 10-PM to 10-AM on weekdays and midnight to 10-AM on weekdays for most dorms; the RAs enforce the policies. Food should be available at a nearby dorm, if it is not available at your own dorm.

Academic Rigor

Academically speaking, students must learn to manage their time properly. The curriculum is arranged efficiently, so students will never have an overload of work.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to avoid procrastination, as the workload will stack up exponentially; the workload is definitely manageable if the student dedicates time to each individual class. While it requires work to do well in courses, it is not too difficult with proper time management. It would also be beneficial to join clubs and involve oneself in more activities, as it provides more networking.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a stellar university, which provides students with endless opportunities to pursue their passions and interests. The faculty is dedicated to ensuring the optimization of developing a student's potential. Not only is the school great for academics and networking, but its proximity to downtown Seattle also provides students with a lot of choices to do, 24 hours a day.

Bob from Seattle, WA

03/28/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Greek Life

The Greek life is awesome here at UW. There are a ton of great people that know how to party and have fun while also balancing out school. Although the Greek life is great, it's very time consuming and you might find it difficult to manage your time but it's very doable.

Clubs and Activities

UW offers an immense variety of clubs. There is a club for almost anything you can think of. You can also easily start your own club if you don't feel like joining any of the offered ones.

What to do for fun

Bowling, hiking, swimming, partying, hanging out with friends, movies, Greek row, sports, working out, you name it. There's always something to do here!

Food and Dining

I haven't had much of the campus food because I'm in a frat but from what I did get it was actually petty good!

Dorm Life

The dorm life seems pretty chill from what I hear but I wouldn't know I'm in a frat.

Academic Rigor

If you're an engineering or pre-med major, the course will be very difficult but nothing too bad if you put in the time and effort.

Virginia from Kelso, WA

04/10/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Even though the campus is public, there aren't very many non-UW-affiliated people wandering around (except when the cherry blossoms come out). There's the UW Nightwalk, a shuttle service and the campus is fairly well lit at night.

Clubs and Activities

There's a huge number of clubs out there with something for everyone. Even if you're not a member of a certain club, a lot of them host events that any UW student can go to.

Bang for the buck

This really depends on whether you pay in-state tuition or not. If so, it's a pretty good deal. If not, your wallet is going to be lacking.

What to do for fun

Go out with friends on the ave, take a trip downtown, join a random club and do things you've never even thought of before. And party! (safely, of course)

Food and Dining

The dining halls are usual pretty boring and frankly, some of their food tastes weird. However, if you go to the HUB or cafes or markets, those are usually quite tasty.

Dorm Life

Each residence hall has their own pros and cons. Go apartments if you want more space and quiet. If you're wanting to be more social, then head for a traditional style dorm. There's a place for everyone.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on what sorts of subjects you are studying. UW is known for its difficult math and sciences departments, and that's true. Overall, if you were able to skim by high school without too much effort, don't expect the same to be true here. The professors will make you earn your grade.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved. UW can be scarily big and the only way to make it smaller is to put yourself out there. Join a club, become a member of hall council, say hi to your partner in lab or quiz section.

Rachel from Shoreline, WA

04/12/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There is campus police and security willing to escort any student from any nearby area, since we are in an urban setting, to and from campus any time day or night. There is also Husky Night Ride, for further distances. There are student groups who campaign for new sidewalk improvements around campus every year. There are some risks due to our large campus and the surrounding areas.

Greek Life

There is a large greek system at UW Seattle. There are thirty three fraternities and seventeen sororities, and we have been adding chapters each year for the past few years. All freshman new members in a chapter live in starting in September when school starts and both sororities and fraternities can be, and usually are cheeper than living in a dorm and having a dining account. The greek system houses are all located across the street from campus in a four block area, and there are about two thousand people in our system which can attest to its strength and offerings.

What to do for fun

We are located in Seattle, meaning taking the bus is an easy excursion to any place you want to go. Bus fares for students are paid for with tuition so bus access is made readily available. Because of our setting, we are close to a high end shopping center, University Village. This is nest to our football stadium, gym, and greek system on the north end of campus. There is also University Way, the ave, which has endless ethnic food options, our book store and specialty shops.

Food and Dining

The newly built dorms have wonderful cafes for sit down dining that are paid for through your dining account. There is also a district market that runs as a healthy grocery store. The options available on campus are standard, vending machines and all restaurants in our HUB are paid with a dining account card.

Dorm Life

There has been four new dorm complexes built in the last two years in the goal of assuring on campus living to all freshman. These dorms are beautiful and one the west side of campus. They are indeed more expensive than the old but maybe worth it because they have bathrooms in the rooms. The older dorms are on north campus near the University District and closer to most classrooms.

Academic Rigor

Academic rigor is here for those that pursue it. Getting into most majors is competitive so there is work to be done to assure that you graduate with the degree you want. Classes are competitive with so many students applying for certain majors. There is an honors program that is very rigorous depending on the major track you are in.

Tips for prospective students

Getting to know the extensive network of support on any campus is key. Going to TA office hours will help as well as going to the writing center, on campus discussions and CLUE sessions. Also, there are some great hidden places to study throughout campus and those are fun to find.

In three sentences

The UW is the perfect state school in an ideal urban location that gives you a sense of Seattle equally as much a sense of a college town. There is much support offered by school programs to make asking questions about any size class easy. It is a beautiful campus with an academic and fun vibe.

Kamilah from SEATTLE, WA

04/17/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

There are over a thousand clubs on Campus to be apart of Zombie vs Aliens Walk the Ave with friends Workout at the IMA Join a sport Attend sport events HUB bowling arena Library--Study in Odegard :D Apply to Study Abroad Venture out and get familiar with the bus systems

Food and Dining

There's a WIDE variety of different types of food and dining areas located all throughout campus. Cultivate The 8 Local Point Food trucks (different cultural foods) Dining in the HUB Dining in Pacaar Hall Terry Maple

Dorm Life

The dorms can be tricky when leaving your home. It's a huge transition from having your own home, cooked meals, FREE parking, and being around family. However you'll find dorm life to be an experience of a life time! It's the quickest way to meet new people at an enormous University. And might I add its an inch of freedom, by living in a dorm you'll slowly become independent. ALL dorms have card scanners for only residents who attend UW; which makes it a safe environment. West campus dorms have restaurants near by and personal bathrooms. Studios and singles are available along with apartment style dorms. North campus has community bathrooms (custodians) and clusters.

Tips for prospective students

1. Take THREE years of a language in High School (trust me!) 2. Be yourself when applying, sell yourself in your personal statement 3. Chances are if you're thinking about UW---don't think any harder UW is amazing and will open many doors for you 4. Be bold, brave, and venture out of your comfort zone, networking on this campus is a huge key component to a great experience. 5. Browse the list of Majors and Minors before attending, get a grasp of what sounds interesting and then sign up for those intro classes 6. Always be willing and ready to ask for help, college isn't easy, let alone the process of entering.....but it can be if you're open to receiving help. 7. APPLY! APPLY! APPLY! APPLY! Everything you're interested in is at UW! 8. Practice being studious. Study, Don't procrastinate, be involved, stay active!

In three sentences

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus is an outstanding institution. With phenomenal professors and advisors it's merely impossible to not succeed. University of Washington is no doubt a great place to start building a future and open many doors and opportunities you knew never existed.

Tony from Seattle, WA

06/03/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There's campus police that patrol around the campus, Night walk officers where you can call an officer from Campus police to walk you from place to another during the night. UW always send emails about criminal activity that happens during and after school hours.

FellowHusky

The campus itself offer a lot of stuff. But since you're living in Seattle, there's always that too.

Food and Dining

The food is fine. I mean, it is campus food. There are a lot of choices of food available. Some campus markets are open till 1 AM so that's nice if you want a midnight snack and take a break from studying. The dining PLAN is awful though. Unlike lunch money in high school, you don't get your money back at the end of the year from your dining account.

Dorm Life

I had a good dorm life experience so far. I really liked my roommates and my room. My RA was the best. He was really engaging with us. We had bonding events with our floormates. I also made friends with other RAs and they guided me when I had questions. My other friends in other dorms told me that their RAs don't do much stuff though so I'm really biased from my experience.

Academic Rigor

I took APs and advanced classes in high school so I thought college classes won't be that different. I used the same bad study habit the first quarter and did poorly in my classes. I really had to study a lot and change my studying routines. But surprisingly, I got used to studying. There's also CLUE, which is kind of like after-school tutoring, but more helpful. And for some classes, TAs hold little review sessions. You can always go to your TA or professor's office hours if you want help directly.

Tips for prospective students

If you're from a big high school, you won't have much anxiety about the size. If you are from a small high school, you might be a little nervous but there's a lot of people that can help you throughout your first year! And if you're from Washington, like me, chances are you'll know a bunch of other people from your high school that are/will be attending with you.

In three sentences

One of the prettiest campus in the nation. It's big--there's a lot of walking. Lots of activities to choose from.

Joshua from Kettle Falls, WA

I have ate at UW once and I was very pleased, many choices in one location. Also, vending machines are in most places for easy to get snacks. As well as, local restaurants located close to campus.

Dorm Life

I've toured the dorm rooms and buildings and they are great! Would be easy to meet other students as well as be able to escape.

Academic Rigor

UW is known for being a great academic school. Visiting workers at Microsoft and Amazon, I have been told that when they see an applicant from UW, they always want to look in further.

Tips for prospective students

I'm not a student here but from hearing other people's testimonies, it is important to find a group of friends. With the University having so many students, it helps to have a smaller group to connect with.

In three sentences

The campus of UW was so beautiful. The cherry blossom trees and the local mountain ranges are breath taking. Definitely one of the best campuses I have seen.

K from Gig Harbor, WA

For students who need to find quiet places, check out the lesser know libraries on campus, not just Suzzallo.

What to do for fun

Walk over to the botanical gardens if you need some nature time in the midst of the city. The farmer's market is fun to go to with friends on the weekend. Ride the bus to downtown Seattle or the international district for a change of scene.

Tips for prospective students

Don't bite off more than you can chew. If you are going to class, studying, working a student job, volunteering, and spending time with friends, you probably won't get enough sleep and will burn out quickly.

In three sentences

There is so much going on! Classes and professors teach you a lot, but there are many other opportunities around campus to learn from. Take advantage of all the opportunities!

Elise from Kenmore, WA

Students who want to become involved in school in more than just the educational aspect. Students who are looking forward to meeting lots of new people.

Tips for prospective students

I would encourage all of you as i stated before to stay on top of your work. It's hard not being told all of what you need to be doing like in High School. It's your responsibility to reach out when you need help and don't be shy. There are lots of places around campus that are to help you do well in class. Another thing I would say is to connect yourself, especially if your commuting (which is what I have been doing). Be a part of a club or a sports club. Join something. I've experienced that being a part of different groups of people has really made my college experience more enjoyable. Last tip, rent textbooks and buy online! It's so much cheaper. Buying textbooks every quarter can be very depressing for your wallet. This year I found a great website to rent textbooks and really saved a lot of money (bookrenter.com). Definitely look at your options for buying textbooks before you go straight to the university bookstore to buy them.

Bang for the buck

The UW provides lots of opportunity for students to save money. They really look out for us poor college students. Though there are parts of college that is expensive, I definitely believe that every cent is worth it.

Am enjoying being here

There are many (so many!) students on this campus. Like the large class sizes it can be hard to get used to. But it doesn't take long. You will find that there are so many communities within the student body at this school. Students are encouraged to connect themselves with other students through clubs, activities in the dorms, Greek life, study sessions in the classroom, etc. There are many ways to make friends and build small communities of tight friends. The UW seems to be a community all in itself. There are so many resources for everyday living near campus. A 5 minute walk gets you to the AVE where there are tons of places to eat (very tasty meals), shop, and get school supplies. A 5 minute bus ride takes you to University Village which is a huge outdoor shopping place. There are so many buses that go on and near campus so getting to a from places all over seattle is not hard at all. It's so convenient.

Am learning a lot

There are many resources to help you succeed in your classes. It is intimidating at first because the undergraduate classes can be very large. However, it's not hard to meet people and set up study groups and get involved. The professors and TAs want you to do well in the class and they are very open to help you out if you need help. There are places around campus like the math lab and writing center as well as study sessions called clue that will definitely help you out. My biggest advice is to be proactive in asking for help. If you don't understand something in lecture or the textbook don't wait for it to be made clear for you, speak up. It's up to you to find help and it's not hard at all so don't be intimidated!

Rebecca from Kirkland, WA

10/18/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

UW is great for honestly any type of student. Diversity is so immense on campus, which makes it an even better college! There are all types of people here, and everyone gets along. Respect is huge on campus and there is rarely division between any two groups of people, including upperclassmen and incoming freshmen.

Tips for prospective students

UW is a fantastic campus, but yes- it is also a big university. As you first join the UW family, consider taking a FIG. It helps a lot to have familiar faces in each class, especially for the first quarter. Also take clubs (called Registered Student Organizations) and look into ways to get involved, whether that is holding a leadership position or joining a Greek organization. It makes college life so much more fun and makes campus that much more smaller. The academics are incredibly strong. As for myself, I am in the Foster School of Business. I have realized that the business program at the UW is fantastic and is supported by many smart alumni. UW has a great overall atmosphere and offers a lot to its students.

Bang for the buck

I live in-state, so definitely the best amount of money for the best education. I feel like I am learning material in class and I am enjoying every second of college life, so every cent has been worth it. The libraries and halls are beautiful, the entire campus is clean, and the food is delicious. UW also helps when aid is really needed, so don't let financial issues hold you back! Being here is definitely worth the cost.

Am enjoying being here

I LOVE IT HERE! There's so many new people and events are always happening; I'm honestly never bored. I joined a sorority, which makes the campus a lot smaller and the Greek community is like a big family. I really recommend everyone who is considering the Greek system to look into it. It's a lot of fun, and education is still really important to the entire Greek system. Dawg Daze was incredibly fun as well. It was pretty much like a welcome week, but a ton of events were organized for students to enjoy for free! Football games are the BEST as well and everyone gets super spirited and pumped. I love love LOVE UW!!

Academic Rigor

I expected classes to be more fast-paced and have a much heavier workload, but I find myself cruising by these first few weeks. I am taking an American Politics course and a Greek and Roman Classics course. They both consist of a lot of reading, but I have learned a lot about the two in high school already. However, we have covered what I probably learned in the course of half my school year already. I also find both courses interesting, which makes studying and homework a lot easier. I am also taking a FIG, which is a Freshman Interest Group. I HIGHLY recommend all coming in freshmen to take a FIG. It makes campus a lot smaller for the first semester and makes a big transition a lot easier. Overall, I am learning a lot, just not as much as I had fully expected. I also am only taking 12 credits, so maybe that can contribute to my lightly workload.

Anna from Prosser, WA

Great for students with a broad range of interests that like a bustling city.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that your intended major is available at the U (in other words, have an intended major before applying) - as you must declare your major at the end of Sophomore year. If you plan on transferring into one of the U's majors, work closely with your adviser to make sure your credits will transfer into the program.

Bang for the buck

Absolutely wonderful deal if you will be an in-state student - the reverse is true if you come from out of state (tuition more than doubles). Also great if you transfer into a major from another college (especially if it's a community college) - but only if you properly research your intended major before hand and make sure your college is properly accredited.

Will enjoy being here

I love Seattle - not too big, not too small. The U is deeply ingrained in the life of the city - many opportunities for research and fun.

Will learn a lot

Have a large course selection and broad range of majors to choose from.

Teiyuri from Las Vegas, NV

06/15/2011

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has not been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

This is my first year at the UW and yet I can say I already love it. The campus is beautiful and most of all, I love how helpful the administration is at this campus. I am a freshman and thus anxious to begin school and yet all my questions are answered helpfully.

Bang for the buck

The UW however doesn't offer mnay scholarships to out of state students. I didn't get anything but loans and thus going to the UW is going to take a toll on my wallet this year.

Nataly from Tacoma, WA

07/06/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

The college experience is way more than just grades, tests and going to class. Its about meeting new people, making friends, and making tons of memories! Don't forget to find the balance between school and having a life.

Bang for the buck

Even though the tuition price is going up, I still feel like you are getting your moneys worth from the school. The professors that are there want to be there and want to teach. They are good at what they do and they love their jobs. Also there are so many seminars and guess speakers (including the president) that come to the school that that alone makes it worth it.

Am enjoying being here

Between dawg days, campus tours, ASUW elections and humans versus zombies there is always something to do around campus! And if you need to get away, Gas works park is a short walk, or you can take a bus into down town or to the u-village.

Am learning a lot

People are so open minded and accepting of everyone ideas! The professors are great at showing the subject through many different perspectives!

Dana from Kirkland, WA

07/09/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Get to know your TAs and professors, branch out and talk to your classmates, even in the big lectures, you'll get to meet people from all over and really expand your friend network. Once you have a few familiar faces you see around campus, it'll seem a lot smaller!

Am enjoying being here

I love Seattle, the campus is absolutely beautiful. Hanging out in the quad with the cherry blossoms spring quarter is a favorite past-time. However, being from the Midwest dealing with the constant gray season (winter) has been a challenge, luckily there are UV lamps at Hall Health.

Am learning a lot

I have grown so much intellectually since I have started taking classes at UW. There are so many different course options in all kinds of fields where you can have a class of 3 people or 500. Learn to talk to your TAs and professors - it helps out so much and I wish someone had told me that before my freshman year.

Hailey from Colville, WA

07/12/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Students going into these majors: International studies, Nursing/Medical, Business and CSE (as well as so many others - these are some of the ones I know about). Students who are looking for a city experience but without being in the center of the city. There is definitely a University District which is somewhat separated from other areas of the city. This school is perfect for people who are looking for a bigger school, but don't let its size scare you.

Tips for prospective students

Always take advantage of the programs offered. You are paying for them, so use them.

Bang for the buck

The University recently increased tuition, unfortunately, due to budget cuts across the country. The Bang for the buck however has not been affected. The University, while large, has so many programs and services available to the students. It has clubs for everyone (and I literally mean everyone), programs to help you study and get help, and services such as 24 hour libraries and a place to rent out equipment ranging from projectors to cameras. Additionally, ASUW, the University's student body, is constantly working to keep this 'bang for the buck' standard high.

Am enjoying being here

I love it at the University of Washington. I grew up in a small town and people there always said the University of Washington was too big of a school, but I have never found this to be a problem. The school gets smaller and smaller the longer you are here and I love that about this school. The weather is the only thing that can sometimes get people (and me) down, but all I had to do was come up with a couple of hobbies to do when its rainy. But what can I say, I love being a Husky!

Am learning a lot

I have learned so much in my time here at the University, both in class and outside. The classes, the University, the city and the people all have something new and unique to teach you.

Stephanie from Simi Valley, CA

07/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

People who don't mind overcast, sunless days.....one after the other. Anyone who wants to actively engage themselves (with dedication), academically and socially, UW's got both! If you like a big school with tons of people and don't mind seeing strangers everywhere :]

Tips for prospective students

Visit the school and you WILL fall in love. I took a leap of faith and didn't visit...the first time I saw campus was orientation. Once we arrived, I knew I couldn't have chosen a better place to be.

Bang for the buck

Being out-of-state has its downsides....especially with tuition increases :/

Am enjoying being here

The social aspect of this school is incredible with hundreds of organizations and clubs to join, events to attend, and most importantly, FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL GAMES!

Am learning a lot

I love the classes I've taken so far and my professors and TAs have been helpful for the most part!

Niyah from Seattle, WA

This school is great for getting that one on one attention with your connections the people who specialize in your Major or Minor.

Am learning a lot

If you are a student that wants to know about anything and everything, and enjoy helping the younger ones succeed, then UW is definitely for you! The UW has tons of programs such as MESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement) that help near by high schools, elementary schools, and middle schools such as Garfield, Rainier Beach, Mariner, Jane Adams, Aki Kurose, Franklin, Etc; become interested in things such as Math and Science. I attended UW for the MESA Saturday Academy Classes at the UW for my freshman and now upcoming Junior year learning about Robotics! There's is also workshops, tours, and learning days!

Paige from Snohomish, WA

07/25/2011

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

University of Washington is a place for all students. There are many different classes for all levels, and opportunities for everyone. Yes, it is competitive, and therefore most students are very academic, but everyone has an opportunity to be a part of the wonderful University of Washington community.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved. There are so many things to do it is impossible to be bored. There are also so many opportunities for help in your classes. Get to know your professor and you can probably get more help from them, there are the TA's, and the free tutor center. Not to mention the nineteen libraries around campus.

Bang for the buck

The education that you will get from the University of Washington is well worth the money. Of course the cost will always seem extensive and huge, but it is worth it to pay a couple extra thousand dollars and get a way better education with more opportunities.

Will enjoy being here

There are so many things to do at the University of Washington, that it is almost impossible to not enjoy being there. There are so many different clubs, sports, intramurals, libraries, and IMA.

Will learn a lot

The University of Washington is a very competitive school, and therefore many of the students will be very willing to learn. This usually creates an environment where it is easier to learn, and easier for the professor to teach effectively.

Cherry

08/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Get involved in clubs, sports, anything to get you out an meeting people. But remember there is no set time in which you must make X many friends. It is a big school, but there is a niche for everyone.

Bang for the buck

I think the amount I pay for what I get out is great. The best part is the fantastic IMA that students have access. I love the IMA and am really going to miss it when I graduate.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is absolutely beautiful, and being surround by Seattle helps a lot. It is a big school, but that just makes every day an opportunity to meet new people.

Am learning a lot

The University of Washington is a high ranked school for good reason. It is filled with highly intelligent students and teachers. I learn a lot from every class I take.

Payton from Woodinville, WA

09/05/2011

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Tips for prospective students

This college is great if you are interested in sororities or fraternities. My parents are still good friends with their brothers and sisters. However, look at the school before you decide to enroll so you can get the feel for it.

Bang for the buck

If you like the feel, then the school has a lot of bang for it's buck, as you will learn a lot and have fun. However, if you aren't interested in school spirit, or house life, then you probably won't enjoy this school as much.

Will enjoy being here

There is a club for almost everything. The weather though is not very great, so if that is a big factor, visit the campus during spring to see just how gray the skies are. It is also a big school, so I would say that if you are interested in being in a sorority or fraternity that you will enjoy this school more than if you would live in a dorm. If you like school spirit though, this is a great school. You will also live in a college town, not far away from downtown Seattle, so make sure you want to live in a town where almost everyone is a student.

Michelle from Lynnwood, WA

Apply, it is hard to get in, but you will never know if you don't try. Go big or go home.

Bang for the buck

Yes, its getting expensive. But there are always loans and scholarships. Personally I have not gotten any scholarships, but the office for financial aid is right across the hallway from the advising office. You can get it all done in one trip.

Am enjoying being here

I have been in school here for around a month now & there are events every week, there is always something going on. Joining clubs and just making friends in your classes are the way to go. I have made plenty of new friends, and my relationships with my professors make me appreciate the good hearts in people.

Am learning a lot

There are such a wide range of classes here it is easy to get lost, but there are so many people around to help pull you back into the know. I really appreciate all the help I have been getting from the professors and the TA's and even my fellow classmates.

Chelsea from Seattle, WA

11/28/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

one of the things i would recommend is going greek. it helps out a lot academically because you have people to help you study who have either taken the class or are taking it at the same time. also going greek makes the extremely large college seem so much smaller. you make a lot of friends and they always are willing to help.

Bang for the buck

the tuition is rather high, but it is worth the money so far and i am happy that i chose the uw over my other choices.

Am enjoying being here

I decided to join a sorority at the beginning of the school year and I absolutely love it! I have made so many new friends in my house and in my classes. This was the best decision I have made so far and it helps me out in my classes and also in my social life.

Academic Rigor

i have learned a lot in all of my classes so far. i enjoy almost all of the classes i have taken so far and i hope i do better this quarter than i did last.

Kaylee from Shelton, WA

12/23/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

This is a great place for so many students! There is a great business school, competitive international studies, vigorous pre-med courses, and so many other great programs. The campus is so diverse and will teach students a lot about their majors, themselves, and life.

Tips for prospective students

With such a competitive university, it is so important to meet with counselors and adviser's to make sure you take the classes that you need! A lot of students end up going for five years instead of four because they fall behind in major requirements, etc.

Bang for the buck

This university is expensive, especially for class sizes; my Econ200 class had 500 students in it. The University of Washington is a great university and has a lot of great opportunities so I think there is a lot of bang for the buck. Even though the classes are so large, there are a lot of ways this university makes learning personal.

Am enjoying being here

The big city has been difficult to adjust to but I am really liking it. The campus is beautiful, the teachers are really friendly, and the campus is so diverse- I learn something new everyday! The Greek system is great and I've made a lot of great friends. I also really enjoy the classes in general and look forward to each new quarter!

Am learning a lot

For my freshman fall quarter I took only 12 credits and the courses were still so challenging! I worked hard and it payed off; I really learned a lot! The professors are great, there is tons of extra help like office hours and free tutoring and study sessions, and the material not only correlates with the text but provides a deeper understanding for the topics taught.

Rebecca from Seattle, WA

People interested in careers in medicine and health care, and students who enjoy a liberal, eco-friendly environment.

Tips for prospective students

Talk to a counselor early and know your ability level; taking too easy courses can be as regretful as being way over your head.

Bang for the buck

Tuition can be expensive, but ample financial aid helps.

Am enjoying being here

Sometimes the large lecture halls can be daunting, but I love the professors, the resources and multimedia available, and the academic challenge.

Am learning a lot

I have encountered some of the best and most inspiring instructors at this institution. Great professors have become great motivators for me, and I have met many who are passionate in their work and who challenge their students

Susan from Seattle, WA

Students who learn well in large classes. Students who can time-manage on their own without strict supervision. Students who are organized and aren't afraid to ask questions.

Tips for prospective students

Go to every class. Seek help from TAs and professors, no matter how daunting their celebrity-like status may seem. I hesitated to ask for help on certain problems then saw them on a midterm or final...

Bang for the buck

You're certainly worked hard with homework and challenging tests here. If you truly spend pretty much all your time here you will definitely know the material.

Am enjoying being here

Generally, I've had a lot of teachers that either talk too fast, enjoy teasing students to a slightly irksome degree. There are a few really amazing teachers who truly care about students' learning, but there are many less caring instructors. Large classes can be both useful and detrimental to learning. You may be tempted to fall asleep...

Am learning a lot

Often times much of what was covered in high school reappears for most introductory courses. I feel like I learn a good deal, but the first month or so is primarily review or topics touched on during high school.

Kaitlyn from Vancouver, WA

with many housing options available, you're bound to find one that's right for you!

Academic Rigor

getting into certain schools within uw is very competitive. students are challenged and motivated to do their best.

Tips for prospective students

visit campus and see for yourself! sit in on a class and talk to current students to get a sense of what it's like. take challenging classes in high school, and be sure to allow yourself enough time to apply!

In three sentences

uw is such a well-known school with many strong programs to choose from. the campus is beautiful, and the opportunities on campus are endless.

Yvonne from Seattle, WA

there's has been a lot of criminal cases happening but the police are always there to ensure the safety of everyone on and around campus.

Clubs and Activities

plenty of them.

What to do for fun

there's so many clubs and organizations on campus. also there's is university village around which is a fantastic place to go and shop.

Food and Dining

food is delicious.

Dorm Life

as long as you get along well with your roommate, everything will be great. their services are fantastic and you will enjoy staying there.

Academic Rigor

university of washington has very high academic standards.

Tips for prospective students

work hard and apply. university of washington is the best place to be and they have the passion to help you succeed once you get in. also they want the best so make sure you do well in high school or community college.

In three sentences

university of washington is a conducive environment for learning. the professors and students are both enthusiastic about learning and gaining knowledge in all fields. it also has good extracurricular activities which helps the students to gain more knowledge outside of class.

Engineering Major at UW Seattle

phones are located throughout the campus, and the campus has its own police force. you feel really safe there.

Clubs and Activities

there are many clubs and activities to do on campus, there is even a human vs. zombies club!

Great for these types of students

odegard undergraduate library is a good place for social studying, it can be a bit loud. if you want a more quiet area, go to the suzallo library on one of the upper floors.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

the entire campus is amazing, make sure to explore it.

Bang for the buck

it is getting expensive, but since the university is known as a public ivy league school, the price is fair. compared to other private universities in the area, the price is great!

What to do for fun

go to downtown seattle and visit park place market, go shopping in u-village, work out at the ima, or take a beautiful stroll through the cherry blossom trees in the spring.

Food and Dining

the ave. and u-village have all the different types of food you can want, and they are both only a walking distance away. it is great!

Academic Rigor

the math and science classes here are tough! be prepared.

Tips for prospective students

for your first quarter at the university of washington, do not overload your schedule with classes. the classes there are extremely difficult, you learn a huge amount in a small amount of time. give yourself the benefit of the doubt and take it easy your first quarter, give yourself a chance to explore the beautiful campus and experience all the great things that the campus has to offer.

In three sentences

this is a great university. be prepared for a difficult school year, but remember you are getting a high quality education, learning a lot, and are amongst the brightest students in the state. you will be proud to wear the purple and gold school colors anywhere you go.

Nesley from Lacey, WA

There are so many organizations, its overwhelming, but amazing. So many towns to visit like Northgate, Ballard, and Fremont. Always something going on or to do!

Food and Dining

It's repetitive and way over priced. Even the lowest food plan is too much. Nice dining facility though

Dorm Life

Freshmen who are interested in the dorm life should definitely start off in Terry and Lander to make new McMahon is most convenient. Bad part about the dorms is having a room smaller than everyone else, but paying the same as them. Food gets repetitive.

Academic Rigor

You definitely have to do your work, attend class and manage your time well. If you do all three you should be set. I'm currently in UW's honors program and the teachers are the best.

Tips for prospective students

Be a well rounded student and focus on your grades. The essay is a huge factor so don't wait last minute. Coming in with some idea of what you're interested in can be useful.

In three sentences

This school has top academics and has programs for all interests. The large size is not for everyone, but you can find a community within. There is nothing Seattle is missing.

Dawn from Seattle, WA

The Ave is brimming with a variety of places to eat, drink, and be social. Seattle has a great local music scene, and plenty of options no matter what your interests or hobbies are.

Food and Dining

The quality of food is good to great. The cost is high if you are an independent student without family to help financially. Eating at home and bringing lunches is the most economical and healthy option, if you can do that. I don't live on campus or have any family to help so I cannot advise you about the meal plans, but there are plenty of other reviews to check out on this site.

Dorm Life

I am a 38 year old student and do not live in the dorms. Off campus housing can be more affordable than dorms, depending on what you consider affordable and reasonable. I live in a comfortable, though not luxurious, house. I have three other housemates. We can easily bus, walk and drive to UW, the Avenue, and the grocery stores in the area. Housing moves very fast in July and August so if you found a place you like, or potential housemates, secure it as quickly as possible.

Academic Rigor

There are hundreds to thousands of classes offered at UW. Some are easier than others, and you will get more out of the classes that you are interested in taking. Many of the classes in your major can be very demanding, but completely worth the hours of studying and homework. You will get out of it what you put in. Stay on top of your work because the classes move fast and cover a lot of content! This is one of the best colleges in the states, and the curriculum and classes will reflect that.

Tips for prospective students

If you haven't applied yet, the application is comprehensive. That means it's not just about your previous grades and test scores. I had a 3.8 GPA from community college, and transferred in without an Associates degree, at age 36!! Your essay describing any obstacles or adversity you have overcome, or are overcoming, to improve your life can be very meaningful if included on your application.

In three sentences

One of the most beautiful campuses I've seen. Lots to offer for study and social locations. The campus is big enough that you may get a work out walking from upper to lower campus with a heavy backpack.

UW is home to the only student-run wind tunnel. Also, it is a tradition for incoming freshmen to touch the four pillars of the original university, which are now in a tranquil place on campus called Sylvan Grove.

Bang for the buck

Yes, tuition is rising, but UW is still one of the most affordable universities in the country!

What to do for fun

Check out the various parts of Seattle--the U District, Downtown, Capitol Hill, the International District, etc. Get involved with clubs on campus!

Food and Dining

A little pricey, but good for the most part. There is a nice variety throughout campus and this will only improve when the HUB comes back.

Dorm Life

I have met so many friends through dorm life and our facilities are mostly above average.

Academic Rigor

I have found my courses rigorous, yet manageable. They are challenging so that I definitely know I am learning something and not merely skating by.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on not only maintaining a high GPA, but also getting involved in the community in something you care about. This will help you get accepted. Also, when deciding which college to attend, consider affordability, quality of programs that you're interested in, and location. (UW was perfect for me in all three areas!)

In three sentences

The University of Washington is home to outstanding academic offerings; friendly, helpful, and intelligent professors; a beautiful campus; high-achieving athletics; and exciting social scene. I love it here and I wouldn't want to go to any other university! It's a public (read: affordable) university while still being very elite and highly respected.

Ashley from Pasco, WA

Tons of running/ bike routes to parks, downtown, athletic events, and neighboring cities make the University District enjoyable.

Food and Dining

Food is good and everywhere around campus but expensive.

Dorm Life

Most dorm rooms are triples, very small.

Tips for prospective students

One of the best Greek Systems on the west coast!

In three sentences

There is a large diversity of students, classes, and even the environment. Classes are large, which is something I enjoy. However, because there is such a heavy demand for classes, registration can become very hard.

Sandrine from Redmond, WA

UW is a very safe school. It has its own police force and has many policies implemented to get all students home safe. As long as you are being safe in general, this school is very safe.

Greek Life

The Greek life is very active and thriving. If you are interested in going to a school with Greek Life, UW is a great school for this.

Clubs and Activities

Already mentioned above.

Great for these types of students

Great for students who wish to go to a big school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs. Zombies tag

Bang for the buck

If you are an in-state student, this is the best school you can go to in Washington.

What to do for fun

The IMA is a huge gym with many intramural activities available at your disposal. Any sport that you would like to do, the IMA will have it. There is also a huge diversity of clubs to get involved with (from Harry Potter club to the Gluten Free club). The school is only a 15min bus ride from downtown Seattle so you are truly at the heart of the action.

Food and Dining

Food is paid for by each time and is pretty pricey. The food can get very repetitive therefore if you have the money to dine out, that is a great option as well.

Academic Rigor

This school has its easy and hard classes but overall it is a very good school. It is ranked very highly in multiple departments and is definitely worth going to.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to get involved in anything that interests you because your college career will fly by without you doing anything but taking classes unless you make the effort.

In three sentences

This is a huge school that offers you tremendous opportunities. You must work hard to set yourself apart but if you do, you will thrive. UW is a great networking school and will definitely get you ready for the future no matter what your major is.

Anonymous

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

When you have nothing to do you can always go down to the Odegard library. You can either go to the quiet section and work on your homework or go down to the bottom floor to chat with your friends.

Food and Dining

The school campus food are delicious but not diverse. This is the reason why people who dorm always goes out to the street across from University of Washington to find someplace to eat.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great! However, the cost for dorms are not so great because it is very expensive. If I got the money I would definitely dorm because dorm life is only available to me when I am a college student.

Academic Rigor

I hear from my friends and mentors that the education is very great here in University of Washington. However, the only problem is that it might be too hard to get into the majors since there is so much competition.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to take a 2 full day to tour around the whole university before attending the university. This is to make sure that you would not get lost while walking around the university campus later on.

In three sentences

A big and mysterious university that is nothing like any high schools. People who attends to the university are very friendly and smart. The school offers many programs for the students.

Courtney from Seattle, WA

04/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I don't recommend walking through alone at night, there is a large homeless and drug oriented population in the U District and they often sleep and/or prowl in and around the campus. Most the time it's ok, but people do get robbed quite a bit, mostly for iphones and things like that. There is a really good service called Night Ride, and they provide free rides at night for any student in need, I've used it before and I am so grateful for it.

Great for these types of students

I think its a great area for people who really want to be exposed to several different ideas, cultures, and styles. There is no lack of interesting things on and off campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Well I'm a painting major so the art building in itself is a fun location, all the hallways have some sort of sketch or inside graffiti done by generations of art majors, which I think is just great. There is the tradition of the marching band going through greek row the night before a home game of football, which is kind of cool, but when I lived in an apartment in that area it got old fast, especially when I had to get up early for work.

Bang for the buck

The U District is completely student centered and runs around the life of the school. I've worked in all but one of the second hand stores, and shopping second hand is one of the best ways to save on clothes. Not to mention I'm a vintage enthusiast, always done up in a 1940s and/or 50's gear. The food is well priced and REALLY GOOD. There's hardly a place on the Ave (University Way) that costs more than $10 for a decent meal. Also, a good amount of the businesses and local stores give student discounts, which is totally awesome.

What to do for fun

Well on the perfect sunny days, just lounging in the quad is ideal. I love to soak up as much sun as possible sitting in the grass and reveling in the beautiful cherry blossom trees. I have heard of great activity groups like swing dancing, which I have always wanted to do, but again, work kind of takes the cake again.

Food and Dining

The food is of average fair, my favorites were in the HUB before it was closed down for remodeling. since I don't live on campus anymore, or have classes south of the quad, I don't really eat on campus anymore.

Dorm Life

This is harder for me to answer, I've had to work full time during my entire college career. The dorms were ok for me, but I can't say I got too much out of it personally. My friends really enjoyed it since they didn't have to work, or at least as much. But I really did enjoy my room in the Haggett, the room was lovely and I had a gorgeous view of Lake Washington.

Academic Rigor

It certainly depends on the class, but I've certainly been challenged the entire time I've been there. It's also harder for me to keep up sometimes because I have to work about 40 hours a week.

Tips for prospective students

Be sure to map out a route for classes, especially if it's in an unfamiliar building, those quiz sections can be hard to fin sometimes. As nice as compostable spoons are, they are not adequate for soup, just use the reusable spoons for that. Don't let canvassers bully you into talking to them, its nice to be a part of a cause, but it is not ok to be pressured into a decision like that.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a beautiful school full of history and scenic spaces. It is full of opportunities and diverse in its nature, perfect for fresh young minds to explore. It's a welcoming community that truly takes care of its own.

Student

04/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I have never felt safer anywhere. Last quarter I had classes until 9:30 at night and had to walk back to my sorority by myself and I felt very safe. There is also a night-ride you can call to drive or walk you from place to place during the night.

Greek Life

The greek community at UW is pretty big, the houses are beautiful. Joining a sorority or fraternity is a great way to make lifetime friends, it is a great way to make such a big school feel like home. It also can be really helpful with classes because there's also someone to help you.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs to choose from and you can easily make your own. A lot of people get involved, it's a great way to make friends.

What to do for fun

The school is really close to everything, you can take the bus to downtown Seattle, there's just about everything to do there. There are a lot of concerts and raves. Also there are a lot of parties.

Food and Dining

You have a lot of choices on what to eat and where to eat.

Dorm Life

I have never lived in the dorms, but from what I hear it's a lot of fun.

Academic Rigor

It's fast paced, so you need to work hard in order to do well. The science and math classes are very hard and you are graded based on the class average.

Tips for prospective students

The school is huge, so you do have to make some effort to make friends and get to know the professors. But if you reach out the professors and faculty at UW, they are more than willing to help you with whatever you need.

In three sentences

The campus is absolutely beautiful. It is a very good school, that is pretty fast paced. Everybody that I have met at UW is very smart, it can sometimes to intimidating.

Jessica from Seattle, WA

People get mugged a lot around here. If you walk around late at night, always have a buddy. It's not a joke. I get UW alerts all the time about people being robbed.

Greek Life

Thee frats are where the parties are at. The sororities here are clean. Overall, out of all my friends in the Greek system. The males do the worst. They are constantly drinking and distracted. Also, the frat houses are FILTHY. They smell, have writing on the walls, garbage on the floor, and do NOT look like a fun place to live at all. On the other hand, because the sorority houses are clean/dry houses (meaning no alcohol/parties) the girls often do better and enjoy their living conditions.

Clubs and Activities

Tons of activities here. Pretty much anything you can think of.

Great for these types of students

All kinds of students. There is a niche here for every kind of student and depending on your personality and goals, you will find it.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Fraternity boys will often go out late at night and chant. It's the most obnoxious and annoying thing you could hear late at night. UW also loves to do Humans vs. Zombies games.

What to do for fun

The upside about UW is that there are a lot of activities in the community here. You can go to the UW waterfront activities center and rent a canoe or rowboat, you can go to Gasworks park (or any of the other parks around here), you can go downtown (which has shopping, food, and Pike's Place Market), or you can just go to the Ave (aka University Way) and browse through the cool secondhand stores, specialty shops, and restaurants. Also, there is a nice biking/running/walking trail called the Burke-Gilman Trail. Finally the Intermural Activities Center is fun because membership is included in tuition so all UW students can go workout there for free! There is a pool, tennis courts, dancing studios, cardio center, track, weights and more!

Food and Dining

The food can be okay sometimes. The espresso bars, salad bar in the dining halls, Freshens, subway, the UW street food, and some food in the mini marts can be pretty good. It still is very over priced. The main meals served in the dining halls (such as The 8 or 1101) are terrible. The meals are cheaply made, sometimes very unhealthy, and the servers give small portions. There is always the options of fast food made in the dining halls or pagliacci's pizza which are both unhealthy, greasy options. I am sick of the food here and tired of paying so much for it.

Dorm Life

The dorms here are a rip off. They are almost as expensive as an apartment, and in some cases they are more expensive. The rooms are small and not always the cleanest. It can get very claustrophobic in the dorms. Also, neighbors are often disruptive and it's annoying. Even your roommates can keep you up with random noise, talking on the phone, or their personal lamps. It can be hard to sleep. Finally if you live in the dorms (besides the apartment style ones) you must have a meal plan. The meal plan is the worst scam. The food is heinously over priced and doesn't even taste that good. A lot of it is unhealthy too.

Academic Rigor

The classes here can be very challenging. It depends what year you are or what you plan on studying, but for the most part, you will be spending a lot of time studying and doing work for your classes.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan to live in the dorms, get the lowest meal plan because the food here is expensive. Supplement the meal plan with groceries and you'll end up saving money as well as eating healthier. Also make sure to buy used books as much as possible. The bookstore is expensive and not always worth it. That being said, keep in mind some teachers ask that you get a connect program or a specific edition of a book, as long as you fulfill your teacher's requests, always opt for the cheaper, used books. Finally, use the bus system! A bus pass is included in tuition here and you'll save money.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a beautiful university. It has top notch programs and professors. The only downside is that it is very expensive.

Campus Visitor

04/30/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The campus is enormous, and it's hard to distinguish where crime might occur, but UW has a great sense of trying to identify and prevent situations that might lead to violence, and to establish a sense of security.

Bang for the buck

This school is a prestigious one, and well rounded. Hence it might be a little expensive, but its definitely worth the money. Despite the high living costs, the city life is well worth it.

What to do for fun

Fun is a merely the very best part of attending the school. With many different activities, and places to go, four years is a considerable amount of time to have fun.

Food and Dining

The food is delicious, the ceremony that I attended offered variations of entrees that were also healthy. Along the way the offered side appetizers to have a happy welcoming. There are a variety of places to dine, whether its on the campus or in the city.

Dorm Life

Even though I only got a glimpse of the dorms, they seemed pretty moderate and comfortable, and offer a sense of home.

Academic Rigor

Between classes its hard to distinguish the relationships of people, as each of them seem to be busy minding their academics

In three sentences

University of Washington is a miraculous school. Besides the diversity that is offered, this campus can be the right place for almost anybody. There are many different things to do, and many new ones to explore.

Khris from Seattle, WA

05/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is great. UW sends out UW alerts via text, email, or phone calls to inform students as immediately as possible about dangers or chemical spills occurring on campus. Also there is night walkers and buses for students that are leaving libraries late at night.

Greek Life

Greek life is a pretty big part of the University life with 13% of the students involved in the greek system. For someone interested in the Greek system ,there seems to be a lot of opportunity to join.

Clubs and Activities

There's a myriad of club and activities to be tried out and explored here at UW. From sailing club to Korean student associations to zombie tag club to archery club, UW is full of students with a lot of different interests.

Tuition for in state students is pretty reasonable and for the quality of education you gain makes it a great bang for the buck.

What to do for fun

Utilizing the IMA, the University gym, is one great way to blow off some stress and hang out with friends while getting some cardio in for the week. Also the Ave has a lot of great restaurants and bars to check out. Also there's a lot of buses that go through the UW campus so you can hop on to downtown Seattle, Bellevue, Northgate, etc.

Food and Dining

Dorm food was not the greatest. It was a little too over priced for not so great quality. However, UW is right next to the Ave which has a great variety of food selections.

Dorm Life

Dorms were a great way to meet people, but sometimes it seemed a little too crowded. My freshman year, I was assigned to a room with two other guys, so there definitely wasn't too much leg room. However, in general UW dorm RAs created a great sense of community and I don't regret my experiences living there.

Academic Rigor

It's a huge campus and it's a pretty competitive school in my opinion. Since the classes are larger, the professors are not in a mood to cater to your every needs. If you need assistance or have a question, you have to be persistent in tracking down professors.

Tips for prospective students

Come visit the UW campus before deciding. It's a huge campus with lots of opportunities, but it may not be the best environment for someone who is quieter and wants more personal interaction with the professor. However, for someone that is gregarious and outgoing it is a great place to explore new clubs and meet the varied student body.

In three sentences

UW is located in the Pacific Northwest where it is home of the Starbucks and the Mariners. It does rain often, but on the days of sunshine, it's truly a beautiful campus. UW is a big place full of opportunities.

It's a public University, so tuition is about 8k a year! And there are so many resources on campus, it's well worth it. The professors here are very prominent in their fields.

What to do for fun

Go eat, walk to the park, canoe in Lake Washington, drink coffee.

Food and Dining

Campus food is okay, but there are a lot of cafes and restaurants around campus that are very delicious!

Dorm Life

You will meet life long friends in the dorms here. They are clean, the food is good, and there are a lot of fun activities!

Academic Rigor

I am premed, and science classes can be pretty tough. There are 700 person lectures, but there are also SO many resources like a study center for every subject, and many TA's.

Tips for prospective students

If you are interested in the sciences, then you should definitely go here. There are so many research opportunities here, and it's really easy to become an undergraduate researcher with all the opportunities.

In three sentences

UW is a huge, but very beautiful campus! It is strong in the sciences, but is a great school for any major. It rains a lot, but isn't very cold.

Laura from Seattle, WA

05/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

UW has its own police, and police station near portage bay. Notifications are sent to all students whenever there is an incident. Also, there is Night Ride (which provides rides at night) as well as emergency booths.

Greek Life

Greek life is very strong at UW. The greek system is a very close knit community. Parties go on almost everyday, and sororities and fraternities are very proud and traditional.

Clubs and Activities

I can't stress enough the amount of clubs and activities UW provides. You can literally do ANYTHING!

Great for these types of students

Great for students who do not need a strict structure or a counselor holding their hand through the process of college. Because there are so many things going on at UW, this campus is best for students who aren't afraid to go out and look for things on their own.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Best location is the HUB, there's a bowling alley, movie theater, pool, and video games. I like going to Drumheller fountain because it gives you a direct view of Mount Rainier. A nice place to seek solace is in the grove near the fountain which has 4 greek pillars, and is surrounded by trees, giving one the sense that they are hidden from the rest of campus. In the spring, UW is notorious for their old cherry blossom trees in the quad, and fills the campus with pink petals. Best tradition that UW practices is the quarterly game of Humans vs. Zombies. Also, Dawg Daze, which is a week of festivities. Ranging from free concerts, free food, and tons of activities.

Bang for the buck

Out of all the school's in Washington UW is the best bang for your buck, if you live in the state. This is the best education you can get in state. For the out of state students, prices are about triple the amount.

What to do for fun

Since UW is in Seattle, the city is your playground. The stadium and other fields are right on Lake Washington. Cheap canoes can be rented from the UW boat house. Downtown Seattle is also just a bus ride away, and only takes 10 minutes! The night life is the best. Stay on the Ave and drink with mainly college kids, or go to neighborhoods like Fremont or Capitol Hill which are notorious for their cool bars and clubs.

Food and Dining

The HUB has almost any kind of food you want, it is like a gourmet cafeteria with food cooked in front of you. Also the 8 has great food. A little over priced though. Dorm food can range from good to bad, however you are extremely close to the Ave which has the most delicious food from Thai to Burgers that is inexpensive and catered to students. Some restaurants on this street also take Husky Cards as payment.

Dorm Life

They try and pair you up with a compatible person. Plus UW is getting a lot of NEW DORMS. RA's are also well trained and make a huge effort in making sure students are doing well in all aspects, whether it is social or academic.

Academic Rigor

Range from difficult engineering classes with large 300 person lectures. To easy humanities classes. It depends largely on your major and your professor.

Tips for prospective students

1. Try and take a FIG (freshman interest group), it's a great way to make friends, it is an easy class, and it really helps in segwaying into college life, and even the Seattle area. 2. Live in the dorms or join the greek system. Both of these places for living are great for making life long friends. 3. If there's something you want to do, or have always had an interest, UW probably has a group who does it.

In three sentences

The great thing about UW is that there are millions of opportunities, from Human vs. Zombies to multiple honors clubs. However, the campus is not as dauntingly big as you would think. The dorms are friendly and fun, the various clubs allow people to find others with similar interests, and quiz sections of 10-30 people make it easier for large lectures to be manageable.

Franklin from Seattle, WA

Lots of drug addicts and gangbangers around, but they steer them clear of us pretty well.

Greek Life

Big time. But you have to be a douchebag.

Clubs and Activities

Tons of clubs, fraternity life is big,too. No matter what youre into, you'll find something to do and people to do it with.

Great for these types of students

Anyone who enjoys an open and supportive environment should check out UW. Progressive Seattle is a great backdrop to allow highly-capable professors to teach the material they chose, and it makes for a wide perspective once you come out of here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Quad is georgous. When the cherry blossoms come in, its a wrap. You have to see it.

Bang for the buck

I am a Washington resident on Financial Aid and, when they don't attempt to discredit your aid eligibility, UW does a nice job of making everyone able to attend.

What to do for fun

The water is close, parks are everywhere, so the outdoors always present a good option (weather permitting). Local bars are fun, and there are hundreds of clubs and organizations that do all sorts of fun stuff.

Food and Dining

Great food on the Ave. Dorm food is hit or miss, so if you can spring I would suggest checking out all the eateries around and on campus.

Academic Rigor

I am in the business school, which does a very good job of balancing a gentle introduction to all subjects with deeper analytical challenges in later courses. As you may assume, getting a sociology degree is much less challenging than getting a computer engineering degree from UW.

Tips for prospective students

Getting admitted is becoming increasingly difficult. Still, UW looks for unique candidates, so accentuate the unique qualities about yourself and set yourself apart from all the other GPA's on applications.

In three sentences

Large Campus in the heart of Seattle offers just about everything. Many top tier programs and lots of support staff. If you don't mind the rain, then there's no need to complain.

Candis from Bellevue, WA

This is a great school for those interested in the education, business, medicine, or engineering. All of these fields have been ranked in the top 10 rankings of all national colleges.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a gorgeous (and huge!) fountain right in the middle of campus. On a nice day, the fountain will be up and running, and students can see Mt. Rainier clearly in the background.

Food and Dining

We have awesome food both on campus and off campus. On campus, we have many locations to grab a bite to eat that doesn't taste like most high school hot lunches (it's much, much better). Off campus, we have a strip of places to eat called the Ave. Foodies can experience anything from thai food to good old burgers.

Dorm Life

Everyone who live in the dorms are just as eager as the person next to them to get to know each other. The only downfall is that the freshmen dorms are a tad bit small.

Academic Rigor

The classes at UW are no doubt challenging. However, since most of the professors are great at what they do, the experience itself is rewarding.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid if you don't know what you want to do yet. I changed my major many times and finally found something that fit me halfway through my junior year of college!

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a wonderful institution for those wanting to pursue education, business, medicine, and engineering. This school is not only known for its outstanding research but also it's academic reputation. UW is a culturally diverse and accepting school of all backgrounds!

Billy from Forks, WA

05/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

While I can honestly say it used to be pretty bad it is MUCH better. Campus police respond very fast and as long as you aren't walking around in alleys late at night you are pretty safe. Be smart and don't look for trouble.

Greek Life

Not part of it, but I know many who are. Very solid Greek community.

Clubs and Activities

I cannot even begin to count to number of clubs and activities we have. Literally you name we probably have it. We even have a fried chicken club. Also a Harry Potter club.

Great for these types of students

Outdoor lovers, people interested in engineering or medicine. Anyone who loves the Pacific Northwest.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a vampire club... Oh and also a Larping group. Every year around spring time ( the exact time is never known) we the larping group will have a huge themed battle in the quad ( an area on campus). Last year it was ninjas vs robots I think.

Bang for the buck

Great location. You have all four seasons ( a little on the rainy side but hey it isn't that bad). Everything is so close. Some universities can be rather isolated, but here at the UW you have so much around you. Within driving distance you have one of the nations most well known areas, the Olympic Peninsula. You also have Canada within driving distance. Sea-Tac gives convenience for international students as well as college travelers and it is a short taxi ride from school. All in all as I reflect the UW has everything you would ever need.

What to do for fun

We have an AMAZING sports and recreation facility known as the IMA. It is essentially the biggest gym you will ever go to. There is a ~26 mile trail that wraps around campus and beyond. We have several lakes allowing you to canoe, row, paddle board. Night life in downtown Seattle is fun. Plenty of outdoor opportunities and being so close to downtown Seattle will keep you from ever being bored.

Food and Dining

It depends where you are dorming, but overall the food is great. There is a wide variety of food ranging from vegan to Asian to even Middle Eastern. My only complaint is that it is expensive.

Dorm Life

Amazing. Coming from a graduating class of 55 and being the only one from my school to come to the UW it was my way of making friends and expanding my network. It is by far the easiest way to meet new people. I also get along well with others, but some might say the freshman forms are small and at times cramped.

Academic Rigor

While it depends on what path you take in terms of education every field has a high degree of difficulty. This is a well known four year university. You will definitely have to push yourself.

Tips for prospective students

Have self discipline. You will have to push yourself in order to succeed and then some. Utilize the resources that a university of this size has. I cannot stress that enough. There is plenty of help on campus, but it is up to you to reach out for it.

In three sentences

Amazing, diverse school that is the biggest in size that I have attended. Has a seemingly endless amount of activities, clubs, organizations, classes, volunteer opportunities, the list goes on. The school can be overwhelming at times.

My only tip is to check out the campus before you decide to attend because it's important to like how a campus looks and feels.

In three sentences

The campus is beautiful with trees, flowers, a fountain, and old buildings. It has a nice college, slow-paced vibe that I didn't expect since it's in the middle of a large city, Seattle. I am excited to attend and be surrounded by cool people and a laid back, beautiful campus.

Food quality is on the rise as student food co-op is getting involved to incorporate healthier food into the dorms.

Dorm Life

You will room with one or two other individuals. With the universal buss pass and dorm food services, you will get to know people in your housing!

Academic Rigor

Classes tend to start off as large lecture classes, then progress into smaller, more intimate classroom discussion sessions as you get deeper in a major.

Tips for prospective students

Learn about the opportunities available at UW such as free quarterly health check-up appointments, scholarships for studying abroad, and advising sessions. Get involved early! Get to know your professors!

In three sentences

University of Washington caters to a diversity of students from the local area, state, nation, and global sphere. There is a home for everyone here with numerous opportunities for research, community service, leadership, and campus involvement. The campus is surrounded by a quaint living environment, a plethora of restaurants, and friendly neighbors.

Megan from Enumclaw, WA

SO. MUCH. ASSAULT/THEFT/SHOOTINGS. Make sure you have some pepperspray.

Greek Life

I'm not in the Greek System, but I know they get crazy and a lot of extra focus on classes is required.

Great for these types of students

Non-smokers, hard working, and laid back!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

A block away from campus, on the cross street of 19th and 47th is a shoe tree. There are hundreds of pairs of shoes hung in the branches, it's pretty ridiculous!

Bang for the buck

The majority of things are great, the environment, the classes, and the resources.

What to do for fun

You have the whole city of Seattle to explore! There are events all of the time here and there are plenty of activities available. Football games are very exciting and fun. Canoe rentals in the spring and summer are really cheap and a great way to spend the day in the sun.

Food and Dining

One word: OVERPRICED.

Dorm Life

It's pretty bland, and you really have to try and make friends. McCarty Hall isn't set up to be a social living setting. Knocking on everyone's doors to meet people is a normal thing. If you're focused on only schoolwork, then dorms are your best bet.

Academic Rigor

There is a huge mixture of intense classes and joke courses. Anything math or science related is going to be a lot of time and effort. Be prepared to write a lot of papers and take tests that are impossible. However, there are some fun classes like a class on movies or dinosaurs.

Tips for prospective students

Study, study, study. This is a lot different than high school. If you thought high school was easy, this will be a huge change for you!

In three sentences

It's like a city within the city of Seattle! It's great if you love the city and all of the people. There is a huge amount of culture and diversity here!

Brendon from Auburn, WA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Since UW is an open campus, fear of crime is always a worry. There have been many crime incidents such as theft around the campus.

Clubs and Activities

SO MUCH TO DO HERE AT UW. I think there are over 200+ clubs offered at UW. There is even a fried chicken club where the members go to different fried chicken restaurants and eat fried chicken.

What to do for fun

There is so much to do around UW. Within the campus itself, there are many different clubs and sports to do. Sporting events for the Huskies is very popular. In fact, the stadium at football games is ranked as one of the loudest and rowdy crowds in the nation. Outside of the campus, it only take a maximum of 15 min car drive to get to downtown Seattle where the famous Pike Place market is located and various shopping locations are made available for students looking for a night out.

Food and Dining

Seattle offers some of the best dining in the world and since the UW has easy and quick access to the city, eating out is a great option. The actual campus food is average, nothing special. Many students choose to eat out since most of the restaurants are conveniently located around the campus. The multicultural mix of Seattle also makes the dining experience that more better as different foods are made available for students to taste.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is in average. There are many different reviews. Some love the experience, while others hate it. UW offers mostly triple rooming since there are so many students. This also includes public bathrooms to be shared by ALOT of people. While this may seem bad, the dorm life is all part of the Husky experience.

Academic Rigor

UW is nothing like Stanford or Harvard, lets be real here. However, the academics offered at UW is still prestigious enough to be ranked top 50 in the nation. The nursing program is one of the best in the nation and the business school is rigorous as well. While UW is notorious for having lecture halls of up to 500 students, the professors here are pretty chill. There are some classes that have Student teachers since there are not enough professors to cover every class. Overall, UW offers good academic rigor, especially for a university of its size.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! There are so many things to do: clubs, recreational sports, sporting events (division 1 HUSKIES!), etc. Sign up for your A&O sessions (advising and orientation) early! The early the date, the chances of getting a better class schedule will greatly increase, especially since the freshman class size should range from 2000 to 3000.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a beautiful campus. There are many different activities available off and on campus. While the student population is quite large, the amount of things to do and the people you will eventually meet will make your college experience here at UW something to look forward to.

Bethany from Tacoma, WA

06/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

For fun, there are several small movie theaters around the university that I like to attend. Also, I enjoy biking on the Burke Gilman trail from my house near University Village up to school. Although Seattle is rainy, there are many things to do.

Food and Dining

I consider myself omniscient at least when it comes to food and especially the selection offered at the University of Washington. I must be honest and state that the food at the university is very overpriced. I have come to the conclusion that the cafe in the computer science building has some of the best bagels and beverages I have tasted anywhere around here. However, the real treat of this campus is found in Haggett Hall (located behind McMahon Hall) and in this building, there is an ice cream shop called Rick's. It is ran by students and the bowls of ice cream are so massive and more importantly, very cheap. (approximately one dollar)

Dorm Life

I do not care especially for the dorms because so many of the buildings are old and ragged and it is especially difficult when a student is a freshman and has to live with complete strangers. I have seen several buildings and if a student has to live in the dorms, I would recommend trying to live in McMahon because the building is pretty central to all parts of the campus and the living arrangements are called clusters. Essentially, a cluster consists of four rooms of two people each all conjoined by a large common room and bathroom. I have found that living with several people rather than just one makes it much easier to make friends and live comfortably.

Academic Rigor

If I could describe the academic rigor at the University of Washington in one word, I would use intense. I take science classes where it is a significant accomplishment if I get a 2.5 on an exam. The material is difficult, the term is quick, and the competition is immense. I enjoy the academic environment of this university because the high standards push me to perform my best at all times because I've seen firsthand that one's best is required to succeed.

Tips for prospective students

My tip for prospective high school students (especially those in Washington state) is to not assume admittance to the University of Washington-Seattle. In recent years, this university has become much more demanding and picky as to whom it grants admission to. Therefore, high school students should try throughout their entire four years because every class and more importantly, every grade counts. My advice for prospective transfer students whether in state or out of state is simple - if coming from another four year university, it is necessary to first attend a Washington state community college and obtain an associates degree in order to heavily increase one's ability to gain admission to the university.

In three sentences

I would rate the University of Washington-Seattle Campus a seven out of ten. My first reason for this score is that there are endless opportunities for students on this campus and while the curriculum is demanding, the education a person receives is worth it. The second reason why I gave my college a seven out of ten is because this campus is located in a very peculiar area meaning that there are many homeless people around and several break-ins and assaults happen everyday.

Kaija from Portland, OR

07/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

I'm in a sorority and I love it. Definitely a great way to make a huge school so much smaller.

Bang for the buck

I'm out of state, and I feel that I could get just as good of an education at University of Oregon and not pay 3x as much. But being in Seattle and on that gorgeous campus and it's facilities definitely shows me that I'm paying for not only the education, but the experience as well.

What to do for fun

Join clubs and meet new people! With so many students around its great to become acquainted with new faces.

Dorm Life

Kind of isolated.

Academic Rigor

Responsibilities all on students

Tips for prospective students

If you don't like big lecture classes or a lot of students, then this isn't the university for you. You are just a number here, they won't hold your hand and help you succeed, you have to make it happen yourself.

In three sentences

Great university, classes are tough but if you make the effort then you should succeed.

Amy from Federal Way, WA

UW does a pretty good job on security in general - emails and text seem to be sent out pretty quickly after crime occurrences to alert students.

Clubs and Activities

It's very easy to get plugged into clubs and groups.

Great for these types of students

This school is good for the type of students who are open to meeting lots of new people, and not afraid of trying new things.

Bang for the buck

I think the money you pay is pretty much worth what you're getting - a good education and experience.

What to do for fun

Most students like to go out to The Ave or U-Village to hang out, where there is lots of shopping and food places you could hang out at.

Food and Dining

Dining and food choice was not that great. I found myself eating out most of the time on The Ave, which is where many stores are located near campus.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is not that bad, except for the amount of noise some nights may have.

Academic Rigor

Most classes shouldn't be too bad, with the exception of a few depending on who the professors are.

Tips for prospective students

Get used to meeting people - you'll be attending a very big school, so I suggest brushing up your social skills and come in willing to try out new and different things, and meeting different types of people.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a great school. It is very big, so there are many opportunities to meet people and get involved. Also, the school is located at a very convenient location and everything is close to campus, making living on campus much easier.

Danh from Everett, WA

The campus is safe during the day. But if you wonder out at night into the streets, you better wish that Batman doesn't just protrol Gotham City.

Greek Life

It's pretty stereotypical.

Clubs and Activities

So much to do, so little time.

Great for these types of students

Yes, this school is great for these types of student.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We would still a brick from the walkway before graduation.

Bang for the buck

I take the term, bank for the buck seriously becuase sometimes people get robbed at gun piont. Other than restaunts around campus will give you a good discount for muchies.

What to do for fun

Fun activities really just depend on the person. But you can do alot of stuff for a discounted price around campus.

Food and Dining

There are countless variety of food, but you can't say the same thing to the dinning table. They so plain.

Dorm Life

I don't live in a dorm, but I herd the life there is pretty dormy.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are as hard as my abs of steel and others are easy as flexing them.

Tips for prospective students

If any of you like to use a restroom all by yourself, I would suggest you to go to Hutchinson Hall second floor restrooms. This place is nice and clean, said the janitor.

In three sentences

This would be a great college for you if you like living in Western Washington. It is really nice and sunny when the sun is out. The classes and professors are pretty chill just like the school year during the winter.

Jesse from Bellingham, WA

07/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

It is a big campus, and minor crimes like thefts occur occasionally. The university has its own police force though, and it has resources like NightRide if you don't feel like walking the campus at night. The dorms all have student ID scanner security and are pretty safe unless you leave your own door open. They take great measures to assure your safety; the victims of crimes typically get items stolen out of carelessness.

Greek Life

I have not experienced Greek life. I've lived next to Greek Row though, and it sounds like the party center of campus every Friday.

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds of clubs. If you want to join a filmmaking club, build robots, or dress up as vampires in the university parking garage (no joke), you can find the club for it. If not, you can just create one if you have the motivation.

Great for these types of students

Serious about your education, there are many of that type around here. Partygoers are here but not common, I wouldn't recommend them coming here (you can go to wasu...). Most people here are outgoing as well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Unusual? It's all unusual to me, I'm a first generation college student.

Bang for the buck

Absolutely worth the money, there are world-class intellectuals here and the education, however challenging it may present itself, is effective at teaching its material. It's certainly provided quite the college experience.

What to do for fun

There is a huge IMA (Intramural activities center) with everything like a pool, rock wall, archery, basketball courts, tennis courts... anything you can think of for athletic activities. There is also a HUB rec center under construction for students to play games like air hocky and ping-pong, and it looks like an enormous building, so there will be plenty to do here for fun.

Food and Dining

I'm not particularly skilled in the culinary arts, so to me this was heaven. There are tons of places to eat on campus, some of them all you can eat... the only downside is that you are required to put a down payment on a dining account every quarter, which is slightly overpriced, and any money you have left over by the end of the year cannot be withdrawn... it can also be used for on-campus grocery stores. But given how much I eat, I guess I can't complain.

Dorm Life

The dorms I have lived in have been pretty terrible to be honest, but the community is typically outgoing if you're into that sort of thing. Not recommended if you really enjoy privacy... perhaps it has changed, they are constantly building newer dorms.

Academic Rigor

Completely depends on the classes you take and teachers you have. Easy classes give you good grades, but the tough ones... even if they kick you in the behind, you realize toward the end just how much you learned in the process. Education is really good quality here.

Tips for prospective students

If you are offered free academic or career advising, take it - if you're like me and have no idea what you're getting yourself into, it will be the best decision you'll ever make.

In three sentences

This university might just be the best value for all it has to offer. Campus is huge and beautiful, resources seem limitless, and it always seems like something is going on if you need a study break, from campus events to the intramural activities center. Certainly worth it if you are a first generation student like myself.

FILMON from Edmonds, WA

campus has its own large PD, you dont have to go very far to find a cop or emergency call station. night rides are also available to students for free.

Greek Life

i personally recommend greek to anyone trying to meet new friends while in college. if you want a fresh start greek is perfect for you.

Bang for the buck

in the end youre getting a valvuable degree from a very good college.

What to do for fun

club and ima sports are always good. greek houses have philanthropies and competitions that non greeks can attend some times. on campus shows and events happen as well.

Food and Dining

the ave is a great street for food and shopping basically anything you'll need while in college at UW can be found there.

Dorm Life

dorms are fairly small and way overpriced. the food provided is good and so are the locations but most students would be better suited in an apartment .

Academic Rigor

premed students will find their time very difficult here classes are essentially self taught since a majority of teachers here are imported from other countries and cant really speak english though they know the material very well.

Tips for prospective students

meet people early, talk to advisors in your high school and your prospective college to see what you can improve on. a good personal statement goes a long way and do things outside of just AP classes like sports and clubs.

In three sentences

it is a good school with very intelligent teachers but doesnt care for the well being of its students in any matter whether it be hard classes, tuition increase, and a horrible registration process.

Ashley

07/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus PD are everywhere. They tend to be on top of things, especially in sending out emails alerting the student body about suspects in any robberies or whatnot. Plus, the blue phones all around campus are direct lines to Campus PD.

Greek Life

The Greek System is extensive. They are super involved with the school and community, and they make a school of 40,000+ students seem to feel a lot smaller. You make a ton of really good friends and connections through the Greek system as well.

Clubs and Activities

If you enjoy something, there is a club for it. From political affiliations to the Fried Chicken Club, there is a club for you. It is a good place to get involved with the school, and meet other students who have similar interests to you.

Great for these types of students

Any kind of student. Especially hard workers.

What to do for fun

You have the WHOLE city at your disposal. There is so much to do, from touristy things like the Space Needle, or Pike Place Market, to normal things like the music scene and sporting events. There are always events on campus, or the Ave, which is a street right near campus where there are a ton of restaurants and stores.

Food and Dining

The food is pretty decent, depending on where you go, and what you get. The dining plans can add up though, and you lose what you don't use. So if you eat an average amount, shoot for a level 3 out of 6 for at least the first quarter then you can always change for second quarter.

Dorm Life

The dorm room quality all depends on which dorm you get and then which room. Obviously the new dorms are beautiful, but they are also really pricey. Your roommate(s) also make the experience better or worse. But you always have the option of switching or moving out.

Academic Rigor

The difficulty of a class is purely dependent on the professor and the course itself. Some classes are a lot more difficult than others.

Tips for prospective students

Don't let your first quarter or two get your hopes down. The transition from high school to college is harder than most people say it is, especially if high school came easier for you. Learn how to study, and don't wait until dead week to cram. Also, take advantage of the city. There is so much to do, and you don't want to miss out on anything.

In three sentences

The campus is beautiful in any season, and the atmosphere is great. Being so close to Seattle and having use of the bus system as a student makes it really easy to get around too. The classes are difficult, but that all depends on the professor and the course.

Nicholas from Vancouver, WA

Stay with somebody/a group at night. Girls should carry pepper spray. The daytime is quite peaceful.

Clubs and Activities

Lots and lots and lots. Something for everybody.

Great for these types of students

Strong independent learners who like social opportunities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every quarter, a group of students play Humans vs. Zombies for multiple days on end where humans have Nerf guns (toys) and sock grenades to elude the zombies. Any human touched by a zombie becomes a human. Participation is free and optional.

Bang for the buck

Large university provides top-notch technology for labs, recreation, exercise and sports. Students get premier facilities.

What to do for fun

Go biking around the city/campus! Also, canoeing is available for a cheap fair through the UW rowing team.

Food and Dining

School-provided meal plans are unhealthy and expensive. Try to live off-campus so you can cook your own food for less.

Academic Rigor

Every class will require time, effort and commitment.

Tips for prospective students

Find a social outlet to help relieve the pressure of studying. The University of Washington has hundreds of clubs and activities available to its students.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a well-structured, thorough institution that provides a world-class education to its students without the world-class tuition bill. Every large lecture class has a smaller, more intimate quiz section to review material and for students to ask questions. Most every professor is approachable, understanding, and helpful.

Be prepared for the rigors coursework. Be prepared for the huge quarterly tuition.

In three sentences

This school is worth attending for the simple prestige that goes along with saying you addend/graduated from the University of Washington. The resources available are incredible. HOWEVER the cost of attendance is absolutely ridiculous!!!!

Mina from Arcadia, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

The city of Seattle is generally a safe area, so you only really hear of stealing instances, but as long as you keep an eye on your belongings you should be fine.

Greek Life

Greek life is a large part of the University of Washington community and there are numerous chapters available to join.

Clubs and Activities

There are numerous clubs adhered to match any persons interests and if you can't find one that matches what you like, its easy to start a new club. You can also get involved with intramural sports, student government, and community service organizations.

Great for these types of students

The University of Washington is great for students interested in conducting their own research as programs are highly funded. Also if you don't mind getting wet or walking across a large campus. But if you like nature, seattle is beautifully inhabited by lush plants and greenery everywhere you go.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is this area with four pillars

Bang for the buck

For out of state residents the cost is a bit pricey, but it is still less than what many other out of state colleges charge. Also there are many benefits included in tuition, one of which is the U-pass, which gives students free bus transit which can take you anywhere in the seattle area.

What to do for fun

There are always sports games to attend, either at the university or in seattle, like watching the mariners strike home runs. Also there are great places to shop, eat, or walk around including pike place market and downtown seattle. If you like the outdoors there are many recreational activities all around washington, like amazing hiking trails and lakes for water sports.

Food and Dining

There are great places to eat on campus as well as in the seattle community. It is a very environmentally friendly city meaning there are also hundreds of delicious organic cafes all around.

Dorm Life

The University just completed three new dorms that are now open for attending students, which have state of the art facilities and feel more like an apartment than a dorm. The rest of the dorms on campus are currently undergoing construction and will soon be open for use as well.

Academic Rigor

There is a high level of respect between the students and faculty, the professors want to see their students succeed and try to assist in anyway possible.

Tips for prospective students

Don't pick a school only on the basis of ranking or what you think others would want you to pick. Choose the school that you feel most comfortable attending and feel will help you succeed the most in your future.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a beautiful campus characterized by its large architectural buildings paired with newer renovations. Aside from its external beauty, the university attracts some of the greatest professors in the world, many of whom take advantage of the large research programs and engage in their own studies. Finally I would like to say the school spirit is invigorating as husky pride flows through the halls.

UW has lots of quirky traditions. At the beginning of the quarter people can play Zombies Vs. Humans..the entire campus pretty much has a Nerf gun war.

What to do for fun

The HUB (Husky Union Building) has 11 reservable bowling lanes, 10 pool tables, 2 ping pong (table tennis), and a video game arcade room with Wii, Playstation and X-Box. Tuition also includes membership to the IMA where they have a pool and every court and exercise equipment you can imagine.

Food and Dining

They have lots to choose from at great dining all across campus. They have food trucks as well that are incredibly popular.

Dorm Life

I haven't lived in the dorms but it seems to be pretty good living.

Tips for prospective students

Always carry an umbrella in your backpack.

In three sentences

The UW is a great school full of opportunities that will look great on your resume. It is a beautiful campus with great people and programs.

Plenty of clubs and activities that post their events all around campus which is hard to miss.

Great for these types of students

Burke Gilman trail great for joggers and bikers. Downtown Seattle for those artistic students who love taking pictures or visiting music/art events.

Bang for the buck

Overall, from what I can compare to what my friends say about their schools I ended up at the better school. Downtown Seattle is near by and there are plenty of dining options on the main ave. If you like Starbucks there are three located on the main ave which is good for the late nights or when trying to stay awake through lecture classes. If you like jogging there is also a trail that wraps around the school which is nice it can also be used for biking.

What to do for fun

The activity center will be opening for 2012-13 academic year. There are plenty of clubs to join but you are also only a bus ride away from downtown Seattle which has a great night life.

Food and Dining

It is always the same type of food in all the dining halls. The food is overpriced but it is college. The main ave offers plenty of different dining options that give big portions for reasonable prices.

Dorm Life

Lived in dorms for two years and met plenty of great people. Different dorms offer different opportunities.

Academic Rigor

With respect to how my high school prepared me the academic rigor is fast paced and tough.

Tips for prospective students

Prepare for the rain since it rains a significant portion of the year. College is not like highschool and actually requires studying outside of class.

In three sentences

The scenic beauty of the campus is great. The architecture is nice but deteriorates as you get away from the central campus. New buildings are being built or just getting opened.

Jessica from North Bend, WA

There are phones around campus to contact the university's police force and a number to call if you need a police officer to escort you safely around at night on campus!

Greek Life

They've got one!

Clubs and Activities

There are MANY clubs and you can easily create one. There's even the peanut butter and jelly club! You can find ANYTHING to fit what you like!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's the Harry Potter reading room.

Bang for the buck

Great education, little tuition if in-state!

Food and Dining

There is a wide selection very close to campus and on campus. You can even have a dining card. A more formal dining place is coming soon!

Dorm Life

The dorms are great! The newest ones include their own bathroom and thermostat. Plus, you can get text messages for when your laundry is done! There is variety when it comes to accomodations. Including the 24-hour quiet dorms.

Academic Rigor

You need to be SMART because this school will challenge you.

In three sentences

Simply put, this is a great school. Beautiful architecture on the new and old buildings. World renown teachers who are required to take time for you to ask them direct questions. As well as a variety of living accommodations.

Lanny from Bellevue, WA

08/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

People tend to over exaggerate the danger level of campus because were in the city but it's really not that bad. I've never felt unsafe, just be smart- don't walk by yourself at night, if you're walking alone take your headphones out, etc.

Greek Life

I'm not involved in Greek life but they seem to have a good time.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs to join, you will find something you like- I promise.

Great for these types of students

Motivated, UW is hard so you need to be able to motivate yourself to study and work hard.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The quad in the spring time is the most beautiful place on campus, I guarantee you've seen it in a UW brochure.

Bang for the buck

Great education and its public so tuition isn't too bad, but tuition is rising and financial aid has not been the best.

What to do for fun

Go to the ave for lunch, there is every type of food. Or take a bus over to Capitol hill where there are plenty of other fun shops and restaurants.

Food and Dining

Lots of healthy options and almost everything is recyclable or compostable!

Academic Rigor

I've been to both a small private college before transferring to UW and I can say the academics here are much harder, but you also learn more.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved, it's easy to get lost among the 40,000 students and feel like just a number, but getting involved in clubs, sports, volunteering, etc. will really shrink the school.

In three sentences

U-Dub is the cream of the crop in the northwest. Big school, rigorous academics, competitive sports with a huge fan base. The U-district gives the feel of a college town in a big city.

Melodie from Tumwater, WA

This campus has many shuttles for getting students around and off campus late at night, but you have to be smart when travelling alone.

Greek Life

UW loves its Greek Life. You might, too.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Seattle has many small, local coffee shops and restaurants for studying late. Find one that caters to your tastes, I promise you will find one. My favorite is Genki Sushi on Capitol Hill, open until 3 am!

Bang for the buck

Being in Seattle is worth going to this great school, even if it is pricey. There are plenty of social activities and academic resources. As a student, you have the rest of your life to worry about your debt, right now is about gaining experience. UW will give you a great experience.

What to do for fun

UW is in Seattle! There is literally no time to be bored, busses run through all hours of the night, and every neighborhood offers something different. At the very least, Seattle is a great place to explore.

Food and Dining

More dining options are available each year on campus, with greater selections and conveniences. However, the prices are absolutely insane.

Dorm Life

Don't live on campus. It's expensive and the food is often not very good.

Academic Rigor

This school is very challenging, but offers many great things to learn.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you understand that college is nothing like high school, and UW is a very academically challenging school. However, being a UW alumni has many wonderful benefits and a huge selection of academic tracks to discover. Explore what the UW has to offer and don't limit yourself.

In three sentences

UW Seattle is a big school with a vast number of opportunities, set in a great metropolitan location, and has something to offer for everyone. For students looking for a big college experience, UW Seattle has it, and successfully integrates students with campus-wide activities and discounts throughout the neighborhood. The academics are tough, but students truly get to decide what to put in and what comes out of their experiences here.

Jesse from Tacoma, WA

09/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

For those who used to and still do enjoy their Nerf guns, Seattle is one campus that has a game called Humans vs. Zombies. This game is played for multiple weeks and students keep a database of who has been zombified and who is still alive. Basically you'll randomly see a couple of students with orange bandanas tied around their arm or head chasing each other with Nerf guns into buildings between and after classes. Buildings are safe, and outside is not. As far as I know, anyone can play if you sign up on time.

What to do for fun

If you're into anything that has to do with athletics of any kind you will find a place to do it at UW. For those who are of age you can find plenty of parties every weekend...and many weekdays as well. For those who enjoy shopping there are multiple large shopping centers within 20 minutes' drive/bus ride of campus. Plenty of recreational classes for cooking, yoga, various types of dance, whatever else you may want to learn not associated with your major. And there is almost always something going on 15 minutes away at Seattle Center under the Space Needle.

Food and Dining

So many good places to eat on and near campus. Teriyaki, burgers, seafood, sushi, mexican, pizza. You name it, they've got it. If you're pocket book isn't empty neither shall your stomach be. No appetite could possibly go unsatisfied in the U-district of Seattle.

Academic Rigor

I was one of those kids that you hated in high school because he never seemed to put effort into anything and yet got nearly perfect grades anyway. That all changed when I got to the University of Washington. I can no longer coast my way through classes and learn material on the side if I don't feel like paying attention one day. Most of the courses here will require a great deal of focus and diligence which I did not have my first couple quarters. You will have late nights studying or finishing assignments. If you're in the habit of studying very little that will have to change at the University of Washington because you will be learning at a rate far greater than what most are used to in high school.

Tips for prospective students

Try to get at least a general idea of the field you want to study because there are so many interesting programs that if you're unsure you may spend your first two years just deciding what you want to study. Make sure you don't overload your schedule, many classes are very time consuming and you don't want to be taking three or four time crunching classes at once or you'll never sleep. Don't be cheap if you don't have to be. I'm talking about food. There is lots of good food and you're going to need the fuel.

In three sentences

The UW offers a vast array of programs that should suit the needs of almost everyone. There are tons of academic and work opportunities so you can earn money to pay for school while you're attending. The large campus can be overwhelming, but once you learn your way around it's actually quite fun and particularly beautiful in the spring.

Lee from Seattle, WA

Movie theaters close to campus, U-Village with lots of shops and dining also very close to campus.

Food and Dining

Food is not bad. Limited options, though (at least on campus). More selection off campus. Many good restaurants and coffee shops near campus.

Dorm Life

Living in dorms are convenient, however it's up to you to socialize.

Academic Rigor

This also depends your specific major and its level of difficulty.

Tips for prospective students

Have a good idea of what you'd like to study and know of it's trend in the job market. Is your field of study in demand? Employable? It would be a good idea to get involved in the student body organizations and network.

In three sentences

This is a top school for variety of academic fields. This school has excellent professors. There are a plethora of research opportunities here.

Nicholas from Seattle, WA

09/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The Campus is pretty safe. Nothing too crazy extreme has happended since I have been there. There are a couple of minor things that moght happen, but nothing that can have major, destructive effect on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There is literally something for everybody and if there isn't you can create a club with little difficulties. I am involved with NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) and UWMEIVCF (University of Washington Multi-Ethnic InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.) I have great mentors that help with my academics from NSBE and I have met some of the best friends I have ever had from UWMEIVCF. My friends are incredibly supportive of me in all areas of my life and encourage me to do things that help me grow as a person.

What to do for fun

You can go to Sports events year round (football, basketball, etc.). There is canoeing, the IMA (Intramural Activities) Building, go to the Ave to eat, go to downtown Seattle, go to University village, go to Bellevue, hangout with friends in dormrooms, have movie nights, etc.

Food and Dining

I like the food. I don't think the cooks get the respect they deserve. The food is nutritious and the accommodate students with allergies, intolerances, etc. The UW tries its hardest to accommodate everyone it can.

Dorm Life

My experience in the dorms has been excellent! You make so many new friends, it's intense! I was hungry once and I shouted dinner in the hallway and I was able to get 20 people to go to dinner with me. You end up meeting people from various backgrounds and learning new things. It has helped me be more open-minded and an overall better person and friend.

Academic Rigor

The University of Washington is the real deal. This is NOT a cupcake institution. If you don't take it seriously, you will not be in a good place. You will be doing some serious homework and will need to be committed to your studies to succeed.

Tips for prospective students

Get a jumpstart on your success. Get your books early and read and take notes as early as possible. Don't give yourself too many hard classes your first semester/quarter. Ease yourself into the college life with one hard class and a couple easy ones.

In three sentences

A great academic institution, full of diversity and excellence. This one of the top Universities in the nation. I can't be happier with the decision I made.

Devin from Spokane, WA

The ave, as we endearingly call it, is a place where you can meet people from all walks of the world. People watching is a favorite pastime of many students.

Bang for the buck

As an in-state student you cannot find another university with this high quality of an education anywhere else.

What to do for fun

Seattle is a huge town and if you can't find things to do at UW, the city provides you with more than enough options. From going to pike place, canoeing on lake washington, going to the beaches in the surrounding areas, visiting the cascades for some hiking, exploring the u district, there are many ways to spend your free time

Food and Dining

The food is bland in some of the halls. If you choose to go to some of the food vendors other than the dining halls, you will find them much more tasty.

Dorm Life

Some dorms can be quiet and hard to make friends in. However, others are great places to live just because of the friends and bonds you will make, not because of the building itself.

Academic Rigor

The academics here are top notch and all of the students here were top of their classes in high school. This means it is very competitive. You must step up your game in order to even attain a respectable GPA. Coming here can be a true test of fortitude.

Tips for prospective students

Join as many clubs as you can while still maintaining a good GPA. When applying to departments this will give you the upper hand on most of the students, and it is also another way to make friends. Do not go with the crowd, do your own thing and be ambitious.

In three sentences

UW is a great school, with opportunities abound, you can make anything happen. However, it is easy to fall into mediocrity if you do not put yourself outside of your bubble. If you drive yourself to succeed, the UW is the place for you.

Student at UW

The state is providing less funding, thus the tuition is higher than in previous years. However, at 4000 per term, it is still one of the most practically priced educations available.

What to do for fun

Seattle is home to excellent year-round outdoor activities. In addition, the city offers excellent entertainment.

Food and Dining

The University of Washington is located in a very food-rich environment. In the district you will find high-quality foods from around the world.

Dorm Life

I personally never lived in a dorm. However, all my friends loved the experience.

Academic Rigor

I have attended many colleges and institutions. Certainly, the University of Washington is the most academically rigorous. This is good. Students will have opportunities to learn, not slack off.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard and do not become another student. It is important to stand out and be notice by your professors. Go to office hours, introduce yourself, ask well-planned questions.

In three sentences

High caliber education with excellent professors at a public education price. As a leading research institution, the University of Washington offers students opportunities to learn from cutting edge researchers and leading scientists.

Zachary from Seattle, WA

09/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Not only is the Ave great for food but there are also many fun and odd retail stores located there, such as Pink Gorilla (retro video games) and many unique antique shops, bookstores, and novelty shops. Beyond the local businesses, there's always the peer-based activities, of which there is a never-ending supply. With 40,000 fellow students, there is never a lack of parties, get-togethers in the HUB, and student-organized activities such as sports, political activism events, and trips to various places around the city. The fun is hard to miss out on at UW.

Food and Dining

Without even considering the nearby Ave, the on campus food selection that is offered here is extremely varied, well-priced, and tasty. From the school-run cafes to the lounge-like cafeterias; eating on campus is no chore. Even when considering the quality and variety of the on campus eating options, one is greatly tempted by the seemingly omnipresent smells of the Ave. The variety of eating locations jammed into just about a 6 block radius is astounding, almost overwhelming. From Greek to Teriyaki to Italian to Thai, there are many options with similarly varied pricing; there is something there for any occasion of the year and any time of the day (or night).

Dorm Life

I can't afford living in a dorm, but from touring them I can say that the building layouts, amenities, and location are all top notch. Its hard to complain with living across the street from where you have to attend your first class.

Academic Rigor

Never have I ever encountered such a motivating workload as at the University of Washington. That phrase sounds odd, but it is understood in the sense that the school work that is made necessary is so carefully crafted that you are motivated to complete it just in knowing how much you will learn and advance by doing so. That said, the work is challenging and constant, manageable for those that place education first in their lives. As a previously lazy student I can say that you will not be asked to slave away the best years of your life, but you will be sufficiently challenged here, no matter your previous work ethic(s).

Tips for prospective students

Just as at any other University of this caliber, working hard and focusing on your classes is a must. While certain classes seem easier than others, it is important to give each class the attention it requires, which is often in the form of hours of out-of-class studying, oftentimes with peers. The goal here is to become educated, and that goal is shared equally between you, your peers, and your instructors.

In three sentences

The UW Seattle campus is a beautiful campus, with constant renovations that push the modern standard for educational architecture. Every professor that I have spoken with is knowledgeable on subjects both within and outside their taught subjects, and each of them truly desire to educate as best as they are able to. The class/degree options provided by the school encompass nearly any area of study or life path that a student might choose, and even then can be further tailored to each individual student.

UW does not accept letters of recommendations so put in a lot of effort into your personal statement and revise it, then write another that is better and revise it, and repeat it over and over again until you have finally produced a masterpiece. Remember you are more than numbers.

In three sentences

I t is high quality school with dedicated professors teaching courses with textbooks they have written themselves. It is more than just sitting in a lecture hall; some classes incorporate field trips and outdoor learning. Plus tuition is affordable compared to most universities nowadays.

Esther

Shop at University Village or in downtown Seattle, watch musicals or concerts at the Paramount Theatre, and try counting all the Starbucks located in Seattle!

Tips for prospective students

Be very involved in your high school. Even if your SAT or ACT test scores aren't the best, you still have a chance to attend. Ask for help on your college admissions essay and join clubs, sports, and volunteer! Also make sure you do running start (full time for 2 years) if you want to save extra money.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a very diverse school. There are many different programs and classes to choose as well. I love the campus and the new facilities!

Henry from Lynnwood, WA

11/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

UW is great for students who want to be busy, and have a plethora of options for activities. If you like a scenic campus, then UW is definitely the place for you. The campus is rather large, so if you're looking for a school where you can see new people everyday, UW is that school!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UW hosts a public concert once a year for its students. We also feature freshmen interest groups, FIGs for short, where upperclassmen teach a course aimed towards school integration.

Bang for the buck

You most definitely get what you pay for here. Seattle is a big city, and at UW you get the big city experience. The dense population of students and faculty, the fast paced environment of extracurricular and academic activities. It is a cosmopolitan that's worth the raising tuition costs.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of parks in the area to enjoy. Karaoke is always a crowd favorite at the university of washington. The buses are always close to take you into the heart of downtown where you can visit markets and enjoy a wide array of shopping venues.

Food and Dining

It's not always going to be gourmet, but food and dining on campus is as diverse as the people who are enrolled there. Though I may not enjoy everything I've ever eaten on campus, I most definitely have come to learn that I enjoy many more types of food than I did before college.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is an essential part of being a college student, even if you are not living in a dorm, you will probably be spending much of your time in them with friends who do. Dorms offer a great outlet to make new contacts, and offer a unique spin to an idea of a home.

Academic Rigor

UW presents a very challenging curriculum. You are graded on a curb with your fellow students often times. Regardless, classes generally leave you with a greater sense of interest in the curriculum, and personal growth is the end result for most if not all courses.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved with as much activities as you can! Do not hinder your opportunity to meet new people, and never be afraid to put yourself out there.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a diverse environment that fosters character development and social networking. It is an institution of higher learning which captivates all fives senses. It is the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary values.

Hee from Everett, WA

Don't walk around with savvy technology during the evening, you will most likely get it stolen.

Bang for the buck

Using the survival handbook that the University Bookstore gives out is filled with tons of coupons where you can save on meals and clothes.

What to do for fun

A lot of students enjoy roaming the Ave. It's the place to be during the morning and night.

Food and Dining

The food is very good, but a little fattening. Every time I get done with a meal, I feel bloated and greasy. It's usually always cramped in the dining area, so it's hard finding a decent, clean table.

Dorm Life

It's a hit or miss with the dorm life. I find it more as a hit because you build lifelong friendships that are unbreakable. Living with your roommate for a long period of time makes you grow a very strong bond. There's always someone at the dorm willing to hang out or study.

Academic Rigor

This is a very competitive school. Everyone is competing with one another to get the top grade so you need to work twice as hard to get the best grade possible.

Tips for prospective students

Don't ever put off your homework and studying time or you will regret it. Students probably hear the warning all the time, but once you attend college, it's the real deal.

In three sentences

Attending University of Washington-Seattle Campus is one of the most rewarding feeling I've ever had. This school challenges you in every aspect of your life; in this campus, you grow leadership and life skills that keeps your organized and studious. It's a very competitive school that I'm incredibly fortunate to be in.

Sonya from Bellevue, WA

11/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I've never seen anything sketchy happening, but i do regularly get security alerts about purse-snatching. Stealing is a big problem, though if you keep your stuff with you, there shouldn't be any problems.

Clubs and Activities

There are seriously over 600 different clubs. Any group of five people can start their own club.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a quarterly human vs. zombie game that hundreds of students join. There are two zombies in the beginning, and then they tag people and the people they tag become zombies too. There are usually a few super serious people who work really hard not to get tagged, and they survive the whole week of the game.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of clubs to join, and therefore a lot of cheap activities. I especially like to go to the theater performances ($5) and canoeing is fun too ($5 per canoe).

Food and Dining

The food is great! there are many choices on campus, but i love going to the university ave to eat. there are a ton of choices of different restaurants just one block away from the main part of campus.

Dorm Life

I've heard great things about dorming, but i haven't experienced it personally.

Academic Rigor

The classes get progressively harder. As you go into more advanced series, your peers grow progressively more competitive, as only the most serious students take those classes.

Tips for prospective students

I would suggest that prospective students to explore the class selections. If there are classes that interest you, come!

In three sentences

The professors here are, on average, very helpful and, even when they aren't, the TA's are a great resource. I love this campus; it's very clean and beautiful. There are also a great variety of classes to take and clubs to join.

Carlos from Seattle, WA

This University is great for students who are pursing a career in Business and Engineering.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Blackout at Husky Football Games! It is what is say - just wear all black to one of the Husky Football Games.

Bang for the buck

There are several resources for Minorities in Mary Gates Hall. Personally I always reach out to advisors for the College Assistant Migrant Program (CAMP) that was eligible for, but there are other programs such as TRIO & CLUE, along with scholarship Workshops.

What to do for fun

Go to the HUB or the Ave on campus to chill. There's usually events going on all over campus, particularly at Red Square. Otherwise just explore downtown Seattle and check out the Space Needle or Pike's Market Place.

Food and Dining

I have to cook for myself since I don't have a school meal plan. Otherwise it's just dining out at fast food restaurants!

Dorm Life

Don't live in dorms! Commuting in an apartment is recommended!

Academic Rigor

Expectations are exponentially higher than those of high school. You are expected to be a disciplined and responsible student, but it's not like you'll have a baby sitter to make sure of that.

Tips for prospective students

Don't procrastinate! If you can get ahead of your studies, get ahead. I also recommend attending office hours and if you're eligible, attend the Instructional Center.

In three sentences

I would rate this school a 10/10! Has a very diverse campus. Offers special programs for minority students.

Felicia

12/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Seattle is a great city to live in, and with the U-PASS, public transportation is made easy.

Food and Dining

Surprisingly enough, I enjoy the food options on campus. Despite the horrors that I have heard about college dorm food, UW offers many options, from the regular cafeteria-style eating to food courts and a full-service restaurant.

Dorm Life

Living in the residence halls at UW is a great experience. The convenience is why I chose to live on-campus. With the halls so close to everything on campus, I truly feel like all the resources I need to succeed are at my fingertips.

Academic Rigor

Be prepared to be challenged like you never have before. UW is a great school with a diverse group of talented students. The courses are difficult, but they will only benefit you as you will learn more and be more prepared for your post-graduate careers.

In three sentences

UW Seattle has an absolutely beautiful campus. UW is such a well-rounded school with many opportunities, through majors and minors, jobs, extracurricular activities, and experiential learning. It is a great school with a great reputation that it lives up to.

Anonymous

I think its good, the houses are beautiful..... I was not part of it so I don't have too much to say.

Clubs and Activities

Check out the list online.

Great for these types of students

Business, Science, Engineers, Mathematics, International Studies and Early Education Studies.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

HUSKY GAMES ARE GREAT!

Bang for the buck

You will love it if you are open minded, know yourself and know what you want, stay on track and have a blast.

What to do for fun

ALOT. There is clubs and activities for students. There is a little shopping village near by. There is downtown near by and the University Way has great little shops for students.

Food and Dining

Great food at McMahon and the new dorms. You will never go hungry. There is great eating- out places around the university.

Dorm Life

Its a great experience and you should try it. You will meet some of you best and life time friends at the dorms.

Academic Rigor

You will have to do work, there is no way around it but you will be surprised how much you have learned once you are out and will appreciate its. If you do what you love you will have no problem doing the work.

Tips for prospective students

You will love love UW, if you get involved and try to make the best of it while you are there.

In three sentences

It is beautiful, spacious and has old-medieval buildings. The fountain is beautiful during the spring and summer, surrounded with roses. The quad is beautiful when the cherry trees blossom, full of life, happiness and students.

Megan from Kelso, WA

12/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

The University is located in the heart of Seattle, there are buses to downtown, Bellevue and every other point in Seattle. If students don't want to take the bus, the Ave is within walking distance as are movie theaters and art galleries.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should come in prepared to have large class sizes for most introductory classes with class sizes becoming smaller as studies become more advanced. Prospective students should also look into majors they may be interested in pursuing that are offered by the university and what the requirements are to graduate with the majors they are interested in.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is a great school for anyone looking to attend a large university with a variety of degree options. The large size of the campus and the variety of departments allows students to take classes in multiple disciplines while still pursuing an intended degree. As an added bonus, the University of Washington is a research campus, meaning that there are many opportunities for students to become involved in research in any area of interest.

Katelyn from Lakewood, WA

01/02/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus Safety is great here. During orientation, the students will get a presentation by one of the police officers of the UWPD, telling them all of the ways that the campus security works. All of the police officers truly care about the students and from every one that I met, they have made an effort to get to know my name and become not just an officer, but a person in power that is on your side. The University of Washington Police are also a separate entity than the Seattle Police which also makes them more accessible for just the students. Surrounding the campus are posts that are emergency posts as well. At the push of a button an intercom will go on with the Seattle Police dispatcher and an officer without question is sent to the location of the post. All of these instances make me feel extremely safe.

Greek Life

Greek Life at this campus is outstanding. I am a member of a sorority at the University of Washington and I am very happy about this decision. The Greek Life here is huge, with 33 fraternities and 18 sororities. This life led to the campus feeling small enough for me to then make a solid group of friends while also giving me the confidence to succeed in any situation or interview as meeting new people is inevitable. Also, not just the social benefits, but also my academics have been strengthened by the women around me. For the majority, there was always another person in my class to study with that I knew, or another woman who was in the same major to always get advice. The alumni support for contacts, scholarships, job references, and internships are also irreplaceable.

Clubs and Activities

For the clubs and activities on campus, there are enough for every single type of student. There are some based on ethnicity, based on major, or based on hobbies. University of Washington accepts a lot of international students and there are clubs for this as well. Also, to be founded on campus as an official club, you only need four other people to be interested as well. Going to a campus with so many people guarantees that you will be able to found any club that does not already exist.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One of the unusual traditions on campus is the Friday night rallies. Every Friday night before a home game for the Husky football team, the marching band goes throughout the campus playing their songs. It turns into a congregation of students and fun that gets you ready for the game the following day. A location to be aware of that is important for all kinds of events is the centrally located Red Square. Here, Dawg Daze is held which is an entire week of concerts and events to bring the campus together before classes start. Once, even a flash mob was held here to welcome a little prize winning boy to the campus. One location that is not necessarily on campus but that is unusual and worth the travel time is the Discovery Park beach. This beach is located off of the road, and has sandy dunes on the hillside overlooking the ocean. The dunes are perfect for bon fires, and climbing down the hill leads to you a secret beach. It's truly an amazing place to go to with friends.

What to do for fun

Living in Seattle lends the University of Washington students to have many ways to have fun. There are buses that run the length of University Avenue, that head downtown, to the beaches, to University Village, Capital Hill, and to Northgate Mall for the needed shopping of course. Downtown holds Pikes Place, the EMP, the Space Needle, the Pacific Science Center, the monorail, and more. There are Duck Tours for a fun and entertaining way to see the city if youÃ¢Â?Â?re not from Washington, and the amount of cheap but exotic restaurants available on University Avenue make eating out an adventure to see how many countries you can try.

Food and Dining

For Food and Dining, my review would also be incomplete because I eat only in my sorority house.

Dorm Life

For Dorm Life, I have actually never lived in them because I live in a sorority. My review would be inaccurate.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor at this campus is perfect. Classes range in difficulty for every person, but I have honestly never heard someone say that they have breezed through every class they have taken. The more inclined in the science and math departments will still be asked a lot of them in the English fields for example. The undergraduate prerequisites also are the perfect balance in the amount of classes and types of courses to make the students have to have a range in what they have to take. The University of Washington Seattle is renowned in a majority of the fields they offer, and they are one of the top academic campus it the entirety of the West Coast.

Tips for prospective students

Some tips that I could give to prospective students are to utilize advisers , office hours with your teacher assistant, and especially the office hours given by the professor. Going to a campus with over forty thousand students could lead itself to the feeling of too much anonymity, but the key to successful grades and a corporeal sense at this campus is to get your face in with the people that will help you the most in attaining your goals. In the same sense for future students, getting involved has a new meaning on this campus. This campus has over one hundred buildings and enough clubs and organizations where if you're interested in something, there will be one for you. It is imperative to be apart of these as to shrink this campus into a graspable size. This may sound like a cliche every campus help guide would give you, but in classroom sizes of three hundred to five hundred on average, getting a group of friends could become difficult.

In three sentences

The University of Washington Seattle campus is a wonderful institution in academia, challenging the students in even the most basic courses. The amount of majors offered, as well as the various avenues and advisers available make any major attainable that you are set on. For the students' social life as well, this campus needs no improvement with the choices of clubs, Greek life, Dawg Pack sporting events, and the centrally located Red Square activities and shows.

Jessica from Seattle, WA

01/07/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is a lot of things to do for fun around the UW campus. There is street known as The Ave where they have a tons of coffee shops, restaurants, dessert shops, apparel stores, karaoke, and much more. Downtown is about 10 minutes away and there's a lot to do there as well as great attractions.

Food and Dining

At first the thought of school food scared me a bit, but then I realized how the food is really good at the residence halls. There are so many restaurants and options for the students. The food cost is relatively equal to outside food and it is very convenient if you're living on campus.

Dorm Life

I recommend the dorm life. It was been a positive experience for me so far. I've met amazing people with similar interests and similar short and long term goals. The connections I have made is indescribable; you become a little family of your own with the surrounding people at the residence halls.

Academic Rigor

College is not easy for everyone and courses will definitely be more difficult than high school courses. The bright side to this is that there are a lot of tutoring options and places to get help from. Professors are very helpful when it comes to students needing help which makes it easier on the students here on campus.

Tips for prospective students

I high encourage students to join clubs and find something they are interested in. I believe there's a community for each and every individual. As mentioned previously, the professors and professional staff are welcoming in a way where you feel at home.

In three sentences

The University offers amazing programs and so far the professors have been extremely helpful. Not to mention you feel so welcomed, especially because of the school's diversity. I am beyond comfortable here and plan to stay at this school until I major in Nursing.

Alaa from Everett, WA

01/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

They have a dial a ride system for walking at night or going back to your dorm or house. You call the shuttle number and they come pick you up and give you a ride back to your housing spot. Also, campus police emails are sent out to all students and faculty when an incident happens so people can be more careful and know what and who to look out for.

What to do for fun

The Husky Union Building has a game room filled with great activities, Northgate mall is 20 min away, downtown Seattle is also like 15 minutes away (which has Pike Place Market!). For those who like to work out, there is a four story gym which has amazing equipment, yoga classes, and trainers if you want them.

Tips for prospective students

Apply, never hurts to apply and see what response you get. You might be intimidated at first by the big campus, I know I was, but that's the thing about UW, your meant to get lost, discover, and walk in on a classroom about relating to dinosaurs.

In three sentences

Very diverse, I don't always feel like I need to look for a friend because people are friendly. The classes here are awesome; so much opportunities to learn and even teach. There is so much to do and so many places to explore!

Bellevue, WA

01/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There were multiple shootings and chemical spills the first 3 months I entered this University. The chemicals spills were handled well, and the shootings usually happens at night. Udub has their own police force on campus, so you can always call for an officer to escort you back to your dorms during night time.

Clubs and Activities

There are many different clubs and activities on campus. Club groups promotes their clubs on campus everyday, so it is a good way to find your interests.

Bang for the buck

Overall, the classes and professors are great. I wish some of the classes would be more challenging, but that really depends on what you're taking.

What to do for fun

Club activities, or go to downtown Seattle and shop around!

Food and Dining

There aren't a lot of options, and I always eat the same foodevery few days or so.

Dorm Life

I am enjoying dorm life, as the dorm advisers are helpful in making sure you get what you need. The only thing I wish they can enforce, is making sure everyone is quiet after a designated time so that students can study or sleep.

Academic Rigor

I am taking three classes (15 credits) as this is my first year here, but I find that I have a lot of free time on my hands. This also depends on what classes you take (major), as the not as competitive majors have easier classes/less requirements.

Tips for prospective students

Socialize, plan ahead, and enjoy!

In three sentences

University of Washington is a very social school, with many clubs you can join or even create your own. Teachers really care about their students and hope for them to succeed. This school has great facilities and own police force to ensure the safety of the students.

James from Mukilteo, WA

One of the top-ranked colleges in the world for only 12 grand (for in-state)? You'll be hard-pressed to find many better deals.

What to do for fun

Tons of clubs, any kind of physical activity, parties up and down Greek Row, and a game of Humans Vs Zombies Tag every single quarter are just a sample of what UWers do to blow off steam.

Food and Dining

There are tons of options for eating both on-campus and off-, with everything from burgers to pad thai to pho to crepes to Subway. Some are more expensive, but some are really cheap, and you'll be able to try lots of different food even on a tight budget.

Academic Rigor

If you want to take slacker classes, there are some that will let you slide by, but any classes that are actually needed for a degree or that you want to learn in will challenge you. You'll need to learn to balance your time.

Tips for prospective students

Get a map of the campus so you can find your way around all the buildings. As a bonus, you'll feel really cool when a visitor asks Hey, do you know where Savery Hall is? and you'll look like a pro when you answer in the affirmative. Go to Office Hours. All the profs and TAs are very open to people meeting them during Office Hours or even outside of that if your schedule is tight.

In three sentences

With a large campus and surrounding University District, UW has and unlimited number of ways for a student to spend their time. The wide range of classes provides each student with the freedom to pursue anything they're interested in. If you're looking for a large school to immerse yourself in, there isn't a better place.

Martha from Mukilteo, WA

02/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck

Good for in-state, overpriced for out-of-state.

What to do for fun

Seattle is one of the coolest, most vibrant and easily accessible cities around. It has a great art, music and cultural scene, along with fantastic places to eat, sight see and relax. Take a bus downtown for some city time, or up to Capitol Hill for a more trendy, urban crowd. There's really something for everyone.

Food and Dining

Lots of places to grab food, coffee, etc. Dining halls have a good variety and cater well to vegetarians. Food plans are overpriced and students are often left with surplus money at the end of the school year that can't be transferred or used elsewhere. Choose a cheap plan and move up a level the following quarter if needed.

Dorm Life

New dorms look great but are overpriced relative to off campus housing. Old dorms are in serious need of renovation.

Academic Rigor

Excellent professors, high quality teaching assistants and a huge variety of courses make for a challenging and engaging academic environment. No one is going to hold your hand, but help is available if you are willing to seek it out.

Tips for prospective students

Classes are large and the campus is teeming with thousands of students every day. It can be easy to feel lost sometimes, so it's important to find your niche early on. UW has clubs, organizations and activities of every kind; all you have to do is put yourself out there and find the group that's right for you.

In three sentences

Located in beautiful Seattle, WA, one of the most vibrant cities in the nation, the University of Washington is a premier research university with equally strong social science and humanities programs. It's large size and diverse student population result in endless opportunities for activities and involvement, but you do have to actively reach out yourself. Take advantage of everything the UW has to offer instead of feeling overwhelmed by all the available options.

Laurie from Seattle, WA

02/12/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are many resources to help you. We get alerts in our email and through text and many emergency booths throughout campus for access to help when needed. However, wander too far from campus and you might get in trouble.

Clubs and Activities

Countless RSOs and activities on campus, you can always find something to do and a place to belong.

Great for these types of students

Very liberal campus.

Bang for the buck

Lots of big classes but many resources to help, if you use it.

What to do for fun

One bus away to many places in Seattle, though some may not be aware or know how to get there.

Food and Dining

Can get tiring very easily, I'm sure.

Dorm Life

I can't comment on this, as I did not live in a dorm.

Academic Rigor

Tough because of the lack of direction (you are responsible for yourself).

In three sentences

Very big, but full of opportunities. Easy to get lost, you have to self-advocate as there are resources, but no one will force to make use of them.

Sammamish, WA

02/18/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

In the evening, things get a little scary. There's a lot of campus alerts, especially in the greek system. That being said, they're easy to avoid - don't walk alone, avoid walking at night, and use NightWalk (free campus service where uniformed guards walk you between destinations from 7pm-2am)

Greek Life

There are twice as many fraternities as sororities, but it's still a big part of college life. Most nights there's a party going on, but fraternities only let girls in - sorry guys.

Clubs and Activities

Each department has a bunch of clubs, but there's some 600 student associations including the fried chicken club, the vegetable patch, humans versus zombies, habitat for humanity.. lots of options.

Great for these types of students

Independent students not afraid to put themselves out there. It is a large campus and it's easy to get lost in the crowd unless you find a nice group of people to hang out with. It's not a college town, it's a group of buildings in a metropolitan city; just make sure you're ready for that.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Red square is the main meeting place for everyone. It's connected to the Harry Potter library (Suzzalo library), a dining area, the dorms, and the major lecture hall. Center of campus.

Bang for the buck

It's a chunk of change, but since it's a public school, loans are abundant as are departmental scholarships. You have to be prepared to fight for the merit scholarships though.

What to do for fun

The Greek system is usually busy during the week, but most people go home on the weekends. Other than that, there's the Ave and University Village within walking distance from most places on campus.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food is really not good for you nor tasty, but the coffee shops have lots of good wraps, sandwiches, etc (for a hefty price) I recommend getting the lowest dining hall plan and purchasing the majority of your meals at a grocery or market.

Academic Rigor

This really depends on the course you take. Math is the most difficult department for most people until you get into upper division courses in the medical and engineering fields. If you're a math heavy major, be prepared to suffer a social life, otherwise think about community college math courses to meet the general requirement.

Tips for prospective students

Don't stress too much about getting in. It's a competitive school, but it's no UC or Stanford. if you're smart, well rounded, and can write a decent essay about something other than the typical response, you''re golden.

In three sentences

The campus is a great size for the amount of people attending - don't be intimidated by the large enrollment, it's easy to find a niche where you fit in. Lots of diverse people and experiences, be prepared!

Jessa from West Hills, CA

02/20/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

For fun, there are many different on campus events and activites that go on daily, from student government to sporting events. In addition, the free bus pass that comes with tuition makes it easy to get anywhere in Seattle.

Food and Dining

The food on campus in much healthier than a lot of other campuses. All food comes from local, often organic places. In addition to cafeteria style dining, there is a sit down restaurant on campus as well as a market where you can buy supplies to make your own dinner. The dining plan, a debt-card system, allows for students to manage their spending and have flexibility with their eating schedule rather than have a specific number of all you can eat meal swipes.

Dorm Life

There are different styles of dorms on campus, from suite style, to singles, doubles, or triples, some with private restrooms, providing a variety of living styles to fit everyone's personality.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to go to clubs or events around campus. It's scary walking into a new place but be yourself and it will feel like home.

In three sentences

The UW is an amazing school in all aspects. With a huge student body, there are hundreds of student organizations, teams, or Greek chapters to get involved in. Also, there are many different highly ranked majors that provide a well rounded general education and a detailed background in a certain subject.

Shaina from Seattle, WA

Thee is some kind of criminal incident at least once a week, but thats what you get for living in Seattle.

Greek Life

I dont do that, but I know a lot of people who really enjoy it here.

Clubs and Activities

There are to many to count plus if we dont have the club you want it is really easy to start oyur own club and people will actually come.

Great for these types of students

People who are willing to put a lot of time into finding out what opportunities are out there and will make an effort to get to know what is happening in class. They try and give you these things, but you really have to do it on your own.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

A college wide game of Humans vs. Zombies happens twice a year. It is tons of fun!

Bang for the buck

UW tries to get as much money out of you as possible, but it has better programs than a lot of schools.

What to do for fun

It's in Seattle, you can do anything.

Food and Dining

The food SUCKS, people eat off campus as much as possible.

Dorm Life

It really depends which dorm you are in. It can be wonderful or it can be horrible.

Academic Rigor

The classes are so big it is hard to get help and you never know how you are eally doing in the classes.

Tips for prospective students

Consider the environment you will be in before choosing to go here.

In three sentences

It is big. It is wet. It has great opportunities if you can find them.

The dorms at UW are clean, fun and a great way to meet new friends. Some students are skeptical about living in a small space and sharing it with strangers. But the dorm life is really exciting. You It great to have students near you to talk to because they are all going through the same thing as you, so they understand! There are always exciting things going on in the dorms; never a dull moment! UW is currently rebuilding a few halls for dorms, and considering some of the newly built dorms, they will be great! A few dorms even have kitchens, so you can make your own healthy meals. Some dorms have small gyms and fitness centers, so you have no excuse to stay in shape! The common areas are always full of students and a great way to make new relationships.

Academic Rigor

Looking back at high school, it just seems like elementary school compared to university level classes. High school teachers based grades off of homework, attendance, participation, tests and even extra credit. If you did badly on tests, you always had a chance to make up those points. Also, most classes were yearlong in high school. At the university level, courses are condensed into quarters and that means that you are learning a subject ten times faster. Also, most grades at the university level are based on one or two exams! The courses UW offers have a range of difficulty. The science and mathematics courses are very tough. Most of them usually have a set average and the exams are very tough. The exams are made to stretch your mind and your thinking, not just simply see if you learned what the topics are. Then, there are some laid back courses, like beginning level of English and Russian literature. All the courses still require hard work and many hours of dedication, but some are more enjoyable than others in terms of difficulty. I would say the key is not focusing on how difficult the course or exam will be, but instead really focusing on learning and understanding the topics. The more you are consumed with actually learning and the less time you spend stressing, the better you will do!

Tips for prospective students

The number one, most important tip you need to remember is time management. The key to success at UW is scheduling your days and managing your time. You will always have a stack of homework, plus many other responsibilities. You need to learn from day one how to schedule your time and make sure you stick to that schedule! Once you get the hang of a good routine, you will see how much extra, free time you can have if you do your work and stay on task. Another very important tip is to SLEEP! You might think it's cool to pull an all-nighter but let me tell you, ITS NOT! Getting a healthy amount of sleep each night will help you feel better in the morning, it will help you look better and also you remember more information! Being tired every day will only make learning and remembering harder for you. So, do yourself a favor and get a good, long rest every night

In three sentences

University of Washington is one of the best schools in the northwest. The beautiful campus and scenery just make it that much more exciting to walk to class each day. A large variety of classes make it easy to explore and find the major that just right for you. Whether you are hungry, thirsty or just tired, anything you need is conveniently close on and off campus. There is a large variety of clubs and organizations and frequent events on campus; even YOU will find a place to belong and get involved! UW has a spectrum of students coming from all parts of the world. You are bound to run into another student with an exciting story of where they are from. UW is the perfect place to grow as a student and as a person.

Blackeyesnick

For fun personally I go on hikes with friends, to the ballet and theater. Walk around international district and Pikes market. Also my dorm is always putting on events.

Food and Dining

The food is ok, it's nothing amazing but that is true of college food everywhere, esp if you eat the same thing every day. They do a good job of trying to have a wide variety of food though.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is what you make it, personally I love living in the dorms! However it is very miss and hit. I love being on campus, only minutes away from my classes, the library, and food.

Academic Rigor

UW is a hard school, that should be expected. However as long as you study, do your readings, and homework you will be fine. At first it will seem like a lot but you get used to the work load.

Tips for prospective students

When applying to UW make sure to have very personal essays. The university does not look at your grades so much as they look at who you are. I know people with high grades who didn't get in because their essays weren't personal and they had no outside activities.

In three sentences

The university of Washington is amazing! I love getting to know my professors and doing research. It's also great to live in such a social city as Seattle, where there is always something to do.

The school has contracts with some local restaurants so some places are fresh, but you would definitely want to eat on the Ave where food is better (in some places).

Dorm Life

Freshman year, you do want to experience the college rite of passage by dorming, but you'll soon learn that it's cheaper to find an apartment near campus with friends. The time living in the dorms will make living out in apartments that much more fun.

Academic Rigor

The major depends on how hard your academics can be.

Tips for prospective students

Have a pair of rain boots and a rain jacket, but there's no need for an umbrella. Take mid-day classes in the autumn quarter, afternoon classes in winter and morning classes in the spring. Make sure you take your friends for a hike!

In three sentences

It's the most environmental friendly campus on the west coast. The diversity of the school can give a student a unique college experience. Fresh air, fresh people, and a fresh education.

CommuterHusky

03/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I feel safe on campus and there is always an option of Night Ride or call a security officer to walk with you across campus at night. The surrounding area is generally safe and UW PD respond pretty quickly.

Clubs and Activities

We have a Beyonce appreciation club. Trust me when I say if you're interested in something there is bound to be a club for it.

Bang for the buck

Absolutely. The opportunities for internships and research experience is so abundant that it would be worth it from that alone. The added social experience and great professors is the icing on the cake.

What to do for fun

It is Seattle! There is tons of things to do as long as you keep your eyes peeled. We've got Rocky Horror pictures show interactive viewings near Capitol Hill, beautiful parks like Gasworks and the adventures you can get into downtown.

Food and Dining

West campus has great new additions in the form of Alder market and Cultivate but North campus options leave a lot to be desired.

Dorm Life

With the addition of new dorms the quality has certainly gone up. The new dorms are expensive but beautiful and a great living environment.

Academic Rigor

It honestly depends on your major but classes can be quite challenging. Especially weed out classes like early math and science classes that are required for engineering and pre-med tracks.

Tips for prospective students

If you are a transfer student work on fulfilling all the major requirements for your intended major. If you are from high school or a non-traditional student be sure to write a thoughtful essay that touches on diversity and your cultural experiences.

In three sentences

As a transfer student I am completely in love with this school from the campus, to the social scene and the academic programs. The academic staff is majorly helpful as long as you seek out the help. As a research university there are so many opportunities for you to get involved in career-related projects early on in your college experience.

David from Seattle, WA

None, but the school's located in Capitol Hill, so a wide variety of inventive and affordable cuisine is always at your fingertips!

Dorm Life

No dorms, but you get to live in Seattle, which is awesome!

Academic Rigor

5/5 - it's hard work!

Tips for prospective students

Know your music theory!

In three sentences

I am actually a Grad Student of the Pacific NW Film Scoring Program at the Seattle Film Institute, which unfortunately isn't listed (and I was forced to choose a school on the drop-down list). The PNWFSP is an elite and competitive graduate school and is the only graduate school in North America that uniquely and intelligently pairs film scoring grad students with filmmaking grad students. On a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give it a 10/10 for the skills that I'm the gaining and the opportunities it presents upon graduation.

AK

03/22/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

The food and dining is here is terrible. The food is very expensive and the portions are very small. The food on campus is especially overpriced. Off campus, you can go to the Ave. but most of the Asian restaurants are extremely dirty and unhygenic.

Dorm Life

I cannot really comment on this since I commute. All I can say is the dorms are way to expensive.

Academic Rigor

Academically this school is challenging, especially the science and math classes. They are graded on a curve, so you are always competing against your fellow students, and there are plenty of smart students here. Averages of test scores are generally low, 60-70.

Tips for prospective students

Getting into UW is not terribly difficult as long as you have a good GPA and some extracurriculars. Make sure you spend some time on your personal essays.

In three sentences

This school is very large and class sizes are way too big. The campus is beautiful, but it is hard to make friends here and easy to get lost among the crowd. Overall, its a good fit for someone who is very independant.

Kyndra from Lynnwood, WA

04/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are a few robberies that occur around the campus, just because we are so close to the city and people are out so late at night; however, there are campus police, safety hotlines you can call, emergency poles where you can hit a button and police will come, and night rides so you don't have to walk late at night.

Greek Life

13% of the students are Greek at the UW. We are lucky in that our Greek community is one of the most condensed and is only spread out across a few blocks. There are traditional fraternities/sororities, minority fraternities/sororities, and there is one queer friendly fraternity at this campus.

Clubs and Activities

There is an insane amount of clubs to get involved in! There is anything from Winter Sports, to Engineering Club, to Humans vs. Zombies. It can be a great way to meet a couple interesting people with like interests.

Great for these types of students

Outgoing. Big into sports. Wants a big campus where you will always be meeting new people. Self-motivated to do well in classes. Enjoys lectures opposed to small classes.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

In the Greek community, it is tradition to burn a couch when the power goes out! Tailgating before every football game is something all students love to do during the fall.

Bang for the buck

The University can be really generous with financial aid. Just be sure to apply on time!

What to do for fun

Thankfully the campus is right next to downtown so there is always something to do. To name a few, you can run on trails, canoe, go to the zoo, go to the aquarium, Fremont flea market, go to the Metro movie theater, dance performances/plays, and various events throughout the year.

Food and Dining

There is a good variety of food with vegetarian and vegan options available, however it can be a little bit pricy. Luckily, the AVE is right next to campus with tons of great, cheap food options!

Dorm Life

The dorms here can be very hit or miss. While sometimes you will end up on a floor where everyone's door is open and everyone is interested in being active and meeting each other, there are a lot of floors where people keep to themselves and can be extremely shy.

Academic Rigor

There is a good mix of the hardest class you will ever take classes and seriously? This is a class? type of classes. It is all about making you schedule so that you have a couple of each and don't drown in studying/ homework.

Tips for prospective students

When you are deciding if the UW is right for you think about what kind of things you really want from your college experience. Do you always want to be meeting new people, big on sports teams, research opportunities? The UW is right for you!

In three sentences

The University of Washington has a beautiful campus that is spread out over a few blocks. With such a big campus and undergraduate student body it can be hard to feel apart of a community, but various clubs, residence halls, and fraternities/sororities can help change that! Professors for 100 and 200 level may expect that most of your interactions are with TAs rather than with the professors themselves.

Ana from Crete, NE

There are thousands of clubs you can join and you can start a club anytime too.

Great for these types of students

For business school students I would recommend getting to know people as soon as you get into the business school. Get involved there are a ton of great companies that recruit from Foster and if you know people a lot of doors well open.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Going to sporting events is a must! The husky pride is awesome.

Bang for the buck

Out-of-state tuition is ridiculous, but totally worth it.

What to do for fun

There is a million things to do here. For the young people there is always a bunch of frat parties as well as dorm and house parties. if you are not into partying there are a lot of concerts, sporting events, etc you can attend. `

Food and Dining

The Ave is great for all types of food!

Dorm Life

Never lived in a dorm.

Academic Rigor

Academically Udub is hard, but its an amazing institution.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in school organizations. The school is huge and if you dont find a group you will feel lonely.

In three sentences

The University of Washington is amazing. You come here and you are surrounded by some of the smartest people and by an amazing campus. Being a husky is the greatest thing ever!

Travis from Seattle, WA

07/11/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The University of Washington is a large campus so campus safety is a difficult task. The UW does a great job in keeping the community safe by working closely with the University of Washington and Seattle Police Department. UW alerts via texts and emails are extremely detailed and fast to keep everyone constantly aware of the surroundings.

Greek Life

The University of Washington has a huge Greek community. There are fraternities and sororities for those that would like to venture down the path of the Greek. Greek-row is constantly filled with activity and is a great way for students to be active and build relationships with the community.

Clubs and Activities

Interested in making your own club? The Husky Union Building also known as the HUB is a place for students to get together, relax, and find others with common interests. The IMA has everything; tennis courts, swimming pools, track-field, anything an athlete can ask for, it is there.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There used to be a problem with graffiti throughout the area and one day someone developed a genius solution. The graffiti wall located next to Safeway just off of campus and is a wall where anyone can graffiti. It allows people to showcase their artful talent in a positive way and everyday the wall ha

What to do for fun

The University of Washington has a wide-variety of clubs, intramurals, and activities. Canoeing in the lake during summer, flaunting Husky spirit at football games, and on campus humans versus zombies are only a couple things that I love to do. The list is endless.

Food and Dining

The University of Washington has one the best food and dining hands down. Whether one is looking for an evening dinner or a quick bite for lunch, the Husky Union Buildings on-campus cafeteria and The Ave's streets of restaurants covers every type of food one could imagine at a student-friendly price range.

Dorm Life

College may feel intimidating and the large size of the University of Washington does not help that fact. The dorm life is a great way for students to connect and meet new people so that one never has to go through the colle

Academic Rigor

The University of Washington is competitive and filled with brilliant students. The students around you will be your best friends, but also your greatest opponent. Find a good study spot, hit the books daily, and success will follow eve

Tips for prospective students

College is a privilege and one should appreciate the education and culture that the University of Washington has to offer. The competition at the University of Washington is tough, stay on top of the game by meeting new friends and building strong relationships because studying with friends is both fun and extremely useful. Not everything in school will be straight-forward and having multiple perspectives will always be beneficial. Go to class everyday, and do not procrastinate. It is very easy to be lazy and skip class because no one is there to monitor or push you. Rainy days may increase your urge to skip class, but just power through it because a good study habit will be beneficial in the future and staying ahead is much more difficult than falling behind.

In three sentences

The University of Washington campus is beautiful, resourceful, and extremely diverse. The wide-range of clubs and intramural activities will satisfy students of all genres, professors and study centers are readily available to improve a student's academic experience, and any University of Washington student can describe all the wonders that the Ave has to offer. Whether it is the first day of school or an hour before an important final, one will find the exquisite site of Cherry blossoms breathing life and a sense of calmness to all those that pass by.

Alex from Vancouver, WA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Feels very safe

Greek Life

Not as big as most state schools, but still functioning.

Clubs and Activities

A wide variety of clubs for people with all interests.

Great for these types of students

Academics who have clear goals and career paths in mind.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The whole campus is beautiful, and I like visiting the dock by the rowing boat house.

Bang for the buck

If you are a resident of Washington state, attending is a solid investment. Out of state tuition may be hard for some students to afford, only attend if you have a specific goal and career path in mind.

What to do for fun

Join clubs so that you can make friends with similar interests!

Food and Dining

Being in Seattle, you do not have to go far to find good food. Great places in and around campus.

Dorm Life

I have heard good things, but have not personally lived in a dorm.

Academic Rigor

Known to some as a public Ivy, the UW has some very competitive programs.

Tips for prospective students

When you write your essay for your application, really focus in on diverse experiences that have made you who you are. The UW wants their students to be accepting of all peoples and cultures.

In three sentences

A truly beautiful campus. The University of Washington has classic buildings that make you feel like you are in Europe, not in Seattle. The Campus is bike friendly and has beautiful views.

Stacia from Seattle, WA

07/15/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

It is generally safe if you are smart about it. It is an open campus and near a sketchy area so the safety isn't great. But there are police officers that will take you home or just go in a large group when going out at night!!

Greek Life

Overrated. Be careful, girls especially. It's a great college but it still has frat guys...

Clubs and Activities

I generally do not have much time for clubs but there is definitely a lot of options!

Great for these types of students

If you are outgoing, love the outdoors and generally an active person, UW is fantastic! The gym is absolutely wonderful and there are a lot of bike trails and hiking opportunities!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Because the campus is very liberal, there are a lot of peaceful protests. It is pretty cool because you actually learn a lot of what's going on! As for traditions, the Dawg Daze at the beginning of the year is a lot of fun and you can get lots of free stuff!

Bang for the buck

Being an out-of-state resident, it is EXTREMELY expensive. If you're in-state, you're golden, it is absolutely worth it! But for the out-of-state students like myself.... $43,000 a year? Talk about being in debt for the rest of my life.

What to do for fun

Go to Seattle! Take advantage of your bus pass, take a random bus and just go places. There are so many things to do!

Food and Dining

There are a lot of organic and vegen/vegetarian options. Though it could be broader, I would say compared to other schools UW's dining is great! I just wish they were open later.

Dorm Life

Some of the dorms are amazing! Especially North campus. The West campus dorms are gorgeous but are WAY too expensive.

Academic Rigor

UW is a tough school. Especially since it is on a quarter system, we have more tests and midterms than semester schools. The good thing about this is that you get done with classes faster (especially if you dislike them or the professor) and you have the opportunity to take more/different classes.

Tips for prospective students

Do not listen to what your high school teachers and counselors said, college is so different from high school. Especially a huge school like UW, there are so many opportunities so do not become a hermit and stay i your room! Go out and explore the campus and surrounding areas, you'll be surprised how much fun you'll have once you get comfortable!

In three sentences

Udub is an absolutely gorgeous school with a plethora of things to do! It is an eco-friendly campus and is very liberal and gay-friendly. It is extremely clean and the class choices are great.

Jade from Seattle, WA

07/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

UW is so large that it has its own police department which does a good job of keeping the campus a safe place to learn. However, because of the size of the campus and the surrounding neighborhood, there is some crime that occurs that students need to be conscious of when walking at night in the area.

Greek Life

UW has a large Greek Life, but it's not overwhelming. The communities there are quite close but it's certainly not the only option for a social life.

Clubs and Activities

Because of its size, UW has a great deal of clubs and organizations that students are actively involved in. Whatever your interest, there is a club out there for you to join and these organizations provide a great opportunity to build community with your peers.

The University of Washington is well known for its main lawn, The Quad. Each Spring, the cherry blossom trees in this area begin to bloom, creating a Narnia-like experience as you walk to class. It's a sight to behold!

Bang for the buck

For in-state students, the University of Washington is one of the best deals you can get for a top-tier, world-class education. It ranks 17th nationally on Kiplinger's Best Values in Public Colleges list and 21st for out-of-state value.

What to do for fun

Seattle is a city of endless opportunity. No matter what your interest, you can find something to do here. Explore Pike Place Market, sample the various restaurants in its diverse neighborhoods, or check out a show in one of the countless venues in the city! The main street just off campus, The Ave, has many restaurants and shops to visit that are quite popular with the students here.

Food and Dining

Some of the dining areas are quite mediocre, but the Student Union Building (aka The HUB) has some decent restaurants including Pagliacci Pizza and Subway. In addition, the UW has various markets and convenience stores scattered throughout buildings on campus that are great for grabbing a snack!

Dorm Life

Dorms at UW are pretty standard: some are pretty rundown while others are quite nice. It all depends on your budget. I never lived in the dorms, but I know that it is one of the best possible ways to meet people at the UW and dorm life fosters a sense of community unique from other options on campus. There is nothing like living with others to get to know them very well. You might meet your best friend in your building!

Academic Rigor

Depending on your major, UW can be one of the most academically rigorous schools in the nation. Many of the classes are quite challenging, but also very rewarding. There is a wealth of research opportunities to take advantage of on campus, as well, so that you can add it to your portfolio to prepare for Graduate School or your future field of study.

Tips for prospective students

Utilize resources on campus. We have a host of tutoring, disability, and general student services available that can help to make your college experience the best that it can be. Sign up for a First Year Program Freshman or Transfer Adventure to meet some new people before starting school. Take classes that are outside of your usual comfort zone. Take advantage of the numerous volunteer opportunities both on campus and in the greater community.

In three sentences

UW is a top university located in the heart of an amazing city. It has a beautiful campus, an engaged student body, and multiple opportunities to explore your interests. Overall, the UW is an amazing place to be a student.

Kayla from Puyallup, WA

07/27/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

Depends where you go. The cafeteria food can be pretty good some days and then blah on others. But there are plenty of places to eat on the ave and there's the market in Alder (dorm in west campus) you can get food from to cook back at your dorm and there's a sit down restaurant in Elm (west campus dorm) that you can use your husky card on.

Dorm Life

The new dorms are nice but the older ones could be better. They're tearing those down anyway though

Academic Rigor

The professors really push you and a lot of the times you have to be really on your game to get into a lot of the in demand programs and majors.

Tips for prospective students

Get used to studying now, you'll absolutely have to do it when you get up here. Make sure you can juggle a lot. You want to have a social life as well as have solid grades but a job would be nice as well as volunteer and other opportunities. If you're going to apply, make sure you have plenty of extra curriculars to stand out. And really work on those essays. They're often the deciding factor or what they pay the most attention to.

In three sentences

Academics are great here. There is so much to do around here since you're close to Downtown Seattle and in the U District itself. Sometimes you can feel like you're a little fish in a massive pond but once you find some people like you then it will feel much smaller and more friendly.

Alexandria from Dalton Gardens, ID

I'm not a part of the Greek life here at UW; however, I do hear that it builds a great community and family feeling.

Great for these types of students

Honestly, it is great for ALL types of students. If I don't meet at least a few people each day from somewhere oversees, I would be shocked. There's also a club for everyone!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's this awesome little natural habitat park down by the stadium. It's absolutely gorgeous and also kind of a secret. Shh don't tell anyone!

Bang for the buck

I'm getting a great education and retaining it, which is awesome. However my tuition is approximately $44,000 a year, which is pushing it for my family. I pray every day that it's worth it.

What to do for fun

Goodness! There's a great deal to do for fun. First of all the hub has a fairly large selection including bowling, pool room and video games! I've also heard that the intramural activities are a blast. Not only the regular college campus activities, UW always has something going on every day, whether it's food vendors in red square, club events or outdoor movies and concerts, there's always something to do.

Food and Dining

The food was alright; I ate a lot of the same meals over and over again. I have an auto-immune disease with comes with quite a few allergies and the campus does offer a few selections I could eat, but I wouldn't say enough not to get sick of them. I mostly had to eat salads.

Dorm Life

My freshman dorm experience was okay. I lived in a single room, 24-hour quiet hall and also being out of state it was slightly difficult to make friends and meet a lot of people. I did like having my own space though!

Academic Rigor

The courses I've taken have mostly been quite challenging, much so more difficult than any community college course I had previously taken. At UW you have to put in the effort to succeed because your grade mostly comes down to just two or three exams.

Tips for prospective students

Learn as much as you can about UW before attending the university; that way, you aren't completely in the dark about the hundreds of resources that are available to you as a student. Make sure you take advantage of the resources because there really is so much that the campus offers to its students.

Stephanie from Federal Way, WA

07/31/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

The UW Seattle Campus employs its own police force. The campus crime rates are low and any student can request security to walk them after dark for additional safety. There are emergency phones located around campus and they have a well established notification system to alert faculty, students, and parents of any problems that arise at this university.

Greek Life

The Panhellenic presence is strong and the GREEK system is alive and well. The fraternities and sororities border the campus and offer another living arrangement for students. My parents met there, as my dad's fraternity was next door to my mom's sorority.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 800 clubs, intramural sports, dorm competitions, GREEK system rivalries, and HUB events that keep everyone engaged in college life. DAWG DAYS occur before school starts and these events get students pumped up and motivated for the new school year. There are tons of choices to participate in day and night during this time. This fun and excitement allows students to bond, make new friends, and participate in a multitude of individual or group activities.

Great for these types of students

This is a highly respected university and those who attend are devout HUSKIES! They take their football and basketball very seriously!!!! Everyone is proud to wear their school colors of purple and gold and you frequently hear students singing, humming or whistling the HUSKY Fight Song,Bow Down to Washington. It is a must to have strong school spirit and this trait is truly inherent in Washington HUSKIES.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Odegaard and Suzallo libraries are great for studying and meeting up with friends, along with the HUB that has its own bowling alley, pool/ping pong tables, board games area and video games downstairs to hang out and take a break from the rigors o college life!

Bang for the buck

Check out the clearance tables in the University Book Stores located in the HUB and on the AVE to find too good to believe deals! Also, pick up THE DAILY (the student newspaper) to discover coupons and local specials

What to do for fun

Go down to the arboretum to take a free canoe out on Lake Washington. Take a trip to the Woodland Park Zoo or walk/bike/rollerblade around Green Lake. These options are close by the campus. There are also hiking areas, numerous lakes, Puget Sound and rivers to dive into for a swim. The Burke Gilman Trail winds around campus and is a wooded, scenic trail.

Food and Dining

The HUB and BY GEORGE have numerous eating options, the dorm food is okay, and the restaurants on the AVE. offer a multitude of ethnic cuisine. The University Village has many restaurants that fit any budget. I believe students gain weight while attending UDUB because on campus food choices are fantastic places to find fabulous meals.

Dorm Life

The wide range of dorm buildings allows students to live in quite a few locations on campus. There are dorms built in 2012 and others that dated back a century. There is even a new dorm being constructed right now for move in during the second quarter of this school year. The amenities available in the assortment of living choices will satisfy all personality types. This atmosphere promotes new friendships and the potential to find lifetime relationships.

Academic Rigor

UW offers a highly challenging curriculum. Remember to check out the TRIG or FIG sessions that benefit freshman and help in the transition into college. Students take all the same classes together and meet often to provide support, learning sessions, and study buddies. This set up helps to acclimate freshman to the campus and the rigors of college courses.

Tips for prospective students

Attend an orientation session and take a campus tour. Even though this is a large campus, the set up is easily accessible by all and the mixture of modern buildings set among classical landmarks creates an inspiring atmosphere for students. Check out the HUB (Husky Student Union Building) and make sure to go walking along the AVE. (University Way) to discover all the eateries and shopping opportunities. The IMA (student recreation center) should also be a stop to learn about the numerous intramural sports, teams, exercise, and free fitness classes and programs available to all students. Downtown Seattle is a short public bus ride from the many stops around campus. Be sure to visit the Space Needle, Pacific Science Center. EMP, Pike Place Market and the Seattle Waterfront.

In three sentences

Oh the beauty of this gorgeous campus! It resides next to Lake Washington with a view of this body of water right next to the newly remodeled HUSKY football stadium. The view of Mt. Rainer had me awestruck as I strolled by Drumheller Fountain and Red Square after admiring the vast array of blooming cherry blossom trees.

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus is a beautiful area. Every square inch of the campus is filled with wonder and the buildings give a very pleasant feel. The atmosphere is very welcoming and the whole university is very pleasant.

Nicole from Alta Loma, CA

11/29/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Most of the crime reports we get are from the Ave or Greek Row just north of campus, but its still a good idea to walk in a group and carry pepper spray. Just be aware of your surroundings and avoid the little alleyways or not well lit areas of campus at night - there are a lot of those!

Food and Dining

The food is better than many other schools, but it can get old after a month or two.

Natalie from Seattle, WA

11/02/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Despite being in a city setting, the University of Washington provides students with a relatively safe environment. Many unsafe incidences will pop up over the course of one's time at UW, but if one is are aware of their settings, and makes safe decisions, this campus will be a comfortable place to stay and learn.

Clubs and Activities

The people at the University of Washington are what make it great, and the best examples of that are in its clubs and activities. Due to the large size of the school, there is a large assortment of activities to participate in, and almost every one contains enthusiastic individuals who operate interesting and relevant groups that provide resources for extending one's impact on campus.

Great for these types of students

Students with the desire to practice their resilience, or expand themselves in a social, academic, and professional sense, will be presented with the right kinds of opportunities to do so.

Food and Dining

UW Housing and Food Services (HFS) provides fairly stellar resources for food, using a debit-format food card (called HuskyCard) to use at on-campus eateries. There are a large number of places to use your HuskyCard. Almost every department has a cafe nearby, offering tasty coffees, packaged snacks, and sandwiches; and each dorm has a dining hall nearby. The UW is well known for it's easy access to off-campus eateries, and it's top-notch waste system, offering compost and recycling options.

Dorm Life

The University of Washington residence halls are conveniently located nearby campus, providing easy access to classes, the local waterfront, and bustling commercial areas. The social structure of a dorm floor is highly dependent on the people living there; as a result, the dorm experience can be hit-or-miss.

Academic Rigor

The University of Washington offers a large spectrum of classes, adapted to every interest and ability. All courses are taught by experts in their fields, and some are supplemented with discussion sections lead by student assistants. Like much of one's experience at the UW, academic rigor is dependent on the student in what classes they choose to take, how they choose to approach a class, etc. The most common sentiment among students is that the University of Washington experience taught them to learn how to learn, a skill that critically informs the development of self on this campus.

In three sentences

The University of Washington's Seattle campus is a gorgeous place to study, offering as large a number of opportunities as there are a large amount of classes, spaces, and students. In one's time at the UW, they will learn beneficial life skills that are vital to becoming a world-class citizen. Although challenging, graduates of the University of Washington credit their school to the formation of their adult selves, both in profession and social practice.

Young from Shoreline, WA

the UW police department are fast when it comes to safety. You can get alerts and warnings real fast and the police department work hard to keep to campus safe.

What to do for fun

Well if you have time to have fun, you could always explore downtown Seattle by taking a bus down. Or, there are bunch of good places to eat around U-district (all you have to do is walk!). And of course, there are various clubs and events at UW that you can pick and choose.

Food and Dining

School food, as always, is not the best but not too bad. It's edible and some are actually quite decent. The price is a bit high for poor students like me. Expect to pay around $7-10 dollars per meal.

Dorm Life

Depends on which dorm you live in, but the north dorms are old and aren't really that nice (although not really bad either). The west dorms (the ones that are recently built) are clean, nice and modern and provides wifi for all.

Academic Rigor

the level of academic rigor all depends on the classes you take but college is no joke. It's hard, especially if you remember absolutely nothing from high school.

Tips for prospective students

While getting that high score on the SAT seem very important, focus more on keeping your GPA up and doing extracurricular activities such as volunteering.

In three sentences

A very well-known public school. Beautiful campus with many, many students. Strong in field of science and business.

Caroline from Wichita, KS

At such a big school, there are quite a few thefts, but generally if you keep your stuff near you and stay alert, they're fairly easy to prevent.

Clubs and Activities

UW has a ton of clubs for students (I believe over 800), so finding a club you want to join is pretty much guaranteed.

Bang for the buck

As an out-of-state student, I don't regret paying so much to go here (the new scholarships for some out-of-state students helps, though). If you have any sort of college credit from other institutions, UW transfers credit very easily, which allows a lot of people to graduate early.

What to do for fun

The campus has something interesting going on every day, but not all events are well-publicized. Off-campus, the U-Pass is incredibly convenient and a great way to explore all the neighborhoods in Seattle.

Food and Dining

The food is decent (mostly), but insanely overpriced. I'd suggest getting a very low dining plan and supplementing with trips to QFC and Safeway in University Village or Trader Joe's and Fred Meyer, which can be reached easily by bus. Your food will probably be healthier, too.

Dorm Life

Maybe I just didn't have very high expectations, but the North campus dorms still seem pretty nice. I live in McCarty and the rooms are fairly big (180 square feet, I believe). Different floors socialize different amounts, though, so you can't count on your to make friends.

Academic Rigor

Unless you try to take solely easy courses, UW will be a difficult school for you at some point. The quarter system means three sets of finals a year, and that constant stress that you could be doing something more in one or more classes can make it hard to be really social.

Tips for prospective students

GPA and test scores matter, but the essays can be very helpful in determining your admissions decision or helping you once you are a student. I am in no way a minority,but the office of minority affairs saw something in my essay that constitutes me as a minority in a less-common way, so I still receive the benefits of that department.

In three sentences

It's a great school, albeit occasionally an overwhelming one. Regardless of how intelligent you were considered in high school, you will take a class that makes you feel unbelievably stupid relative to your classmates. This is okay and normal, and it is important to continue pursuing what you love both in and outside the classroom to have a fantastic college experience.

Portia from Bellingham, WA

The food is great at first, but it can get fairly complacent. There are a lot of really good restaurants nearby campus in order to create a better variety.

Dorm Life

The dorm life can be fairly expensive, but it is not a bad thing for first year students. I was in the dorms for my first year and it was nice to be so close to campus. I was definitely glad to find my own place for my second year, though.

Academic Rigor

The university of Washington is an academically rigorous school. In most classes, you have to put effort in if you want to end with a good grade. It is challenging, yet satisfying.

Alisa from Mukilteo, WA

I've never had any issues with safety besides someone taking my umbrella causing me to have to walk from class in the pouring rain, which was rather unfortunate. My hair went from ok to disgusting.

Greek Life

Honestly, Greek life is there, if you want to join, join. If you feel it's not fitting, you can always drop. There's lots of great people in and out of greek life.

Clubs and Activities

Lots of clubs, join one.

Great for these types of students

Any student

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

People take a brick when they graduate, who knows why. The fountain is cleaned every other year.

Bang for the buck

Don't worry if college is where you fail your first class. It happens. Get back up and do better next time. In this case, it'll be next quarter because there is little redemption to be made the 8th week of class.

What to do for fun

It's college, don't always say no to things, but don't always say yes. Have fun, good luck. Participate in extracurricular activities, whatever those may be.

Food and Dining

The food isn't bad until you eat repetitively eat it everyday, multiple times a day. I could only take so many smoked salmon bagels until I spit it back out. Lander has delicious french fries, though they have caused my skin to breakout. But, I suppose any greasy food will do that.

Dorm Life

Dorm life at UW is a community, however, I entered as a freshman shy and waiting for other students to introduce themselves to me instead of vice versa. I did create strong, new friendships that are important to surviving college. I suggest joining clubs if dorm life isn't something you love.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are easier while others are extremely difficult. It is all dependent on what you are looking for. GPA boosters are offered, however, certain classes required in your major will feel like your suffocating in flames and not even the single best slice of pizza will fix.

Tips for prospective students

Don't worry about finding a major the first year if you are undecided. I entered college following the business direction when it wasn't even something I was passionate about. Instead, take classes that interest you so that you are able to discover what you excel at. Consider what you enjoy doing. It sounds simple, but it took me three years to discover.

In three sentences

UW provides students with the ability to extend their knowledge in various topics dependent on one's interests. As a freshman, I was overwhelmed by the campus' size, however, it has become a place of comfort and excitement. Each building has its own persona and balances traditionalism with modernity.

Tiffany from Tacoma, WA

01/02/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's strangely a lot of places to explore.

What to do for fun

I like to gather my cluster mates and watch movies while renting a projector. I also go shopping at the mall by taking the bus (UPASS). UW students get free HBO accounts (when using UW wifi regardless of having router or not) so I like to watch stuff there. I usually go eat with people and ride the bus to go places. You can workout at the IMA or take workout classes too. I go to the ave a lot too (you'll know when you go here).

Food and Dining

The Asian food here sucks and usually its a gamble when ordering special foods of the day. However food is decent at Cultivate (west campus) and the decent foods are the plain typical chicken strips, fries, pizza,etc. Also having a dining account is VERY convenient.

Dorm Life

I live in Mcmahon Hall in a cluster of eight people and it is AWESOME! Mcmahon is a great place to start your first year because people are friendly there and Mcmahon has a restaurant,study room, exercise room, and grocery shop so it is very convenient.

Academic Rigor

I am a freshman so it was a bit difficult for my first quarter but once you develop a balanced habit between socializing and studying it will be a bit easier. A lot of classes use online tools so you might have to do more studying on your own than with only the online material. In high school I never relied on curves but now in college my grades live on grading curves.

Tips for prospective students

Having big classes is not as bad as you think. When registering there is competition due to the fact that there are thousands of students attending. Due to the fact that Seattle has very high minimum wage the prices there are steep so buy essential things (winter coats,rain boots, etc) beforehand. The weather in Seattle gets pretty cold and wet during the winter/fall so pack wisely. Having at least an acquaintance in every class will be useful when trying to clarify confusions for class. GET A ROUTER IF YOU'RE LIVING IN THE DORMS (esp. north campus).

In three sentences

Their campus is HUGE and the buildings are beautiful. There are a lot of people along with clubs and events. There is a very large variety of classes you can take or explore.

Mary from Seattle, WA

There are always email and text notifications about the dangers around campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are HUNDREDS of clubs and activities to choose from! If you can't find the perfect one, you can even make one yourself! :)

What to do for fun

The school always has new and interesting events posted on Red Square. Just keep a look out and you'll have no problem finding something fun to do (rallys, karaoke, movie nights, sporting games etc).

Food and Dining

There is a wide variety of food everywhere - on (food trucks, the HUB, cafes) and off campus (U District/The Ave)! From sushi, teriyaki, pizza, Thai and more, there is an endless possibility for delicious food.

Dorm Life

I personally do not live in a dorm but I've stayed over at my friends' dorms many times and I love the atmosphere! There are so many kind people and I really love seeing lifelong bonds throughout each building.

Academic Rigor

This is definitely one of THE hardest schools out there. With an extreme persistence on all things related to academics, it is quite stressful but UW sure does prepare you for the real world after college.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely apply to this school if you are a student who is open to having fun but also knows how to stay focused. Just take one one quarter/class at a time and work hard and you will do fine!

In three sentences

UW is a very diverse school that offers a lot of freedom to its students.

Stephanie from Federal Way, WA

I have never been afraid nor felt threatened when on campus. There seems to always be many others near when I am walking around.

Greek Life

The Greek system rocks and the brotherhood or sisterhood that occurs is a lifelong opportunity that creates special relationships that are real and strong!

Clubs and Activities

Tons of sports, clubs, and activities are always happening at or near campus!

Great for these types of students

Those who want to succeed in life!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The QUAD is a special place for all and getting your picture taken with DUBS, the UW malamute mascot, brings good luck to all!

Bang for the buck

A super fantastic education at an affordable price!

What to do for fun

Explore the Ave, take a canoe ride, bus to downtown Seattle, enjoy the waterfront, Pike Place Market, attend a Mariners/Seahawks/Sounders game, in addition to HUSKIES sporting events on campus. Take a bike ride, hike, fish, or sail as these options are all near campus!

Food and Dining

The HUB, dorm food, and the Ave all offer any type of cuisine you may desire. There are tons of choices!

Dorm Life

The dorms are all over campus and offer a variety of choices as far as dorm types. There is certainly one that fits each student well.

Academic Rigor

The classes are very challenging, but the opportunities to learn and thrive are awesome! It is a fun place to be and fellow students are a joy to team with in many areas.

Tips for prospective students

Enjoy the outdoors his environment that is close to downtown Seattle, Puget Sound, lakes, and mountain areas. The amount of activities and areas to explore will blow your mind!

In three sentences

The beauty of this campus is breathtaking with Mt. Rainier in the background and Lake Washington, too. The aura created by fantastic professors and motivated students makes one want to attend classes. The research and course offerings allow for widespread knowledge to be accomplished.